School partnerships help grow next generation of social workers
CQUniversity is highlighting the vital role of school-based placements in preparing Australia's future social workers, with one Fraser Coast partnership demonstrating how practical experience benefits both students and the communities they serve.
Third-year CQUniversity Bachelor of Social Work student Tamsyn Grumetza recently completed a placement at Riverside Christian College in Hervey Bay, where she worked alongside the school's social worker and fellow CQUniversity graduate Mara Rogers, building meaningful connections with students while developing the practical skills needed for her future career.
Supported through CQUniversity's Field Education program, Ms Grumetza gained first-hand experience working with young people in a school environment, learning how early intervention, advocacy and relationship-building can positively influence student wellbeing.
“Riverside Christian College has provided an incredibly enriching placement experience. I have been encouraged to step outside my comfort zone and develop practical skills that cannot be learned from a textbook alone,” Ms Grumetza explained.
“The support and mentorship I have received from Mara have been instrumental in shaping my professional identity as an emerging social worker.”
Riverside Christian College Principal Michelle Gouge said the school’s partnership with CQUniversity enabled future social workers gain valuable real-world experience while contributing meaningfully to the lives of its students and their families.
“We are proud to support the development of compassionate, skilled professionals who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities.”
Ms Grumetza said one of the most rewarding aspects of her placement came from the relationships built with students.
“The most rewarding part of my placement has been the opportunity to build genuine connections with students and see the positive impact that support, advocacy and consistency can have in their lives,” she said.
“Even within a relatively short period, I have witnessed students develop confidence, engage with support services, and overcome challenges they may otherwise faced alone.”
CQUniversity Head of Field Education for Social Work Dr Robyn Kemble said high-quality placements were essential in developing confident, capable graduates ready to meet growing community demand for social workers.
"At CQUniversity, we know that social work is learned not only through study but through relationships, reflection and practice," Dr Kemble said.
"School placements provide students with a unique opportunity to see firsthand the difference that early support, advocacy and genuine connection can make in the lives of young people.
"We're proud to partner with schools like Riverside Christian College to create placement experiences that enrich student learning while supporting the school community.
“Partnerships like these are helping develop compassionate, capable social workers who are well prepared to make a positive impact wherever their careers take them."
With demand for qualified social workers continuing to grow across education, health and community services, CQUniversity remains committed to working closely with placement partners to ensure students graduate with the practical experience and professional confidence needed to support individuals, families and communities across Australia.
