Defence School Mentor – Zuccoli Primary School

Location: Zuccoli, NT
Employment Type: School‑based position
Mandatory Requirement: Current valid Ochre Working with Children’s Card

Zuccoli Primary School is seeking a committed and compassionate Defence School Mentor (DSM) to support young people from Defence families and assist them in successfully integrating into our school community. The DSM plays a vital role in easing the impact of mobility and service‑related parental absence by providing information, support and engaging programs for Defence students and their families.

The successful applicant will work under the direction of the senior staff and collaborate closely with the DMFS Regional Education Liaison Officer. This position requires initiative, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive relationships across the school and wider community.

Key Responsibilities

Support Defence students as they transition into the school community and adjust to mobility‑related changes.

Build awareness within the school community of the unique needs of young people from Defence families.

Work with individuals, groups, families and stakeholders to develop, implement and evaluate relevant programs.

Promote participation of Defence students in school and community activities.

Provide advocacy, negotiation support and appropriate referrals to external services.

Develop resources and activities that support mobile families and strengthen school engagement.

Contribute proactively to the school team and uphold all school policies and priorities.

Selection Criteria

SC1: Demonstrated ability to empathise and work effectively with young people.
SC2: Appropriate qualifications and/or demonstrated relevant experience.
SC3: High‑level oral and written communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with students, staff, parents, Defence members and their families.
SC4: Ability to liaise with a wide range of individuals and community groups, with proven skills in advocacy, negotiation, problem solving and conflict resolution.
SC5: Demonstrated ability to organise work, set priorities, meet deadlines, work independently and as part of a team, while maintaining confidentiality.
SC6: Ability to plan, deliver and evaluate innovative programs, resources and activities that support mobile families and the school community.

Please note: The DSM is not a teacher or counsellor and does not provide long‑term one‑to‑one support.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

A cover letter

A resume

Responses addressing each selection criterion

Copies of relevant qualifications and mandatory checks