Psychology students Harriet and Alexis from Curtin University have been working in a range of schools over their 8-week rural placement in Geraldton through a partnership with the Department of Education WA and the WA Centre for Rural Health. We sat down with them both to interview them.
Here are Alexis' responses:
What schools you are working with?
On placement I have been lucky enough to travel to a range of schools, both primary schools and high schools, as well as more remote schools, all offering a unique learning experience.
The kind of work you are doing?
As a school psychologist, my primary role is to support young people's educational outcomes, with a strong focus on student engagement and well-being to enhance their learning.
The role varies between primary and high school settings, and I have had the opportunity to work with students across both.
My responsibilities have included conducting behavioural and learning assessments, providing counselling to support mental health concerns, and empowering staff through upskilling and guidance.
By supporting staff, I help foster a positive learning environment that indirectly but significantly benefits students' overall success and well-being.
What you love about working in a rural/remote location?
I love the community out in the Midwest.
There is such a supportive team of school psychologists, who all care so deeply for the well-being of young people. The collective passion for creating meaningful change is truly inspiring and makes for an exceptional work environment where everyone strives to deliver outstanding services. The remote nature of the region presents unique challenges, which in turn foster immense professional growth and development. This combination of support and opportunities for growth has created a rich and transformative learning environment, making the experience of working in the Midwest both unforgettable and deeply rewarding.
Here are Harriet's responses:
1. What schools you are working with:
As part of my school psychology practicum, I have had the opportunity to experience a range of schools, including primary schools, high schools, and residential colleges within the Geraldton region.
2. The kind of work you are doing:
The work I have experienced so far includes conducting assessments, supporting students' mental health and well-being through counselling, collaborating with teachers and families, and implementing interventions to enhance learning and emotional development. I have also been exposed to a range of system-level work, which has broadened my understanding of supporting individual students and whole school communities.
3. What you love about working in a rural/remote location:
I love the sense of community working in a rural area. It provides the opportunity to build close and meaningful relationships. The supportive team aspect within the school psychology service has enhanced my experience, fostering collaboration and a positive working environment. Additionally, the unique challenges of a rural setting encourage professional growth and the development of creative, resourceful solutions. It’s rewarding to see the positive effects of the work the community and the services have done here. Being in a rural area also offers a special connection to nature, a slower pace of life, and the convenience of having everything nearby, which adds to the overall sense of enjoyment.