As students across the state return to the classroom today, the NSW Government has pledged comprehensive support for schools affected by December’s antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach.
Premier, Chris Minns said the NSW Government was committed to ensuring every student and teacher feels safe and supported as the school year begins, with resources available across public and non-government schools to ensure a unified approach to community recovery.
“Many of our schools and early learning centres across Bondi and the eastern suburbs have been deeply affected by the antisemitic terrorist attack so we’re making sure that everyone affected has the support they need,” said Premier Minns.
“Our message to everyone affected by this horrific attack is clear – we’re with you now and for the long haul.”
The Premier said strengthened security measures were in place at schools and early learning centres with large Jewish student populations.
Dedicated mental health and wellbeing resources have also been deployed to schools across the eastern suburbs and Bondi, including increased access to school counsellors and specialist psychologists.
To ensure the highest level of care, counselling staff have undergone intensive training in psychological first aid and trauma response.
This training was delivered by the highly respected clinical psychologist Dr Rob Gordon OAM, ensuring staff have the necessary tools to support students through the ongoing recovery process.
Additional counselling support will be available for any NSW school requiring assistance during the first weeks of the term.
Alongside these measures, the NSW Government is working with the Commonwealth’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism to implement a training program for teachers and school leaders to prevent and counter antisemitism.
“Students and staff at all schools have the right to feel safe and secure as they return for the first day of term,” said Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car.
“Our schools have a range of support services available, as our community continues to recover and students return to their school routines.
“I encourage anyone who is finding the return to the classroom difficult to reach out for support.”
Any parents and carers who have queries about support as their child returns to school are being encouraged to discuss these with their school principal.
