Schools and disasters
On this page are a range of resources for use by principals, teachers, school support staff, parents and others working in schools affected by the devastating Victorian bushfires in February 2009.
Resources are evidence-informed and have been developed by respected experts from Victoria and elsewhere in Australia. They provide core knowledge that accurately addresses specific needs and aspects of recovery from the impact of the bushfires. Some resources have been developed by relevant health and education organisations.
About the Project
Following the Victorian bushfires in 2009 the Australian Government funded ACATLGN to work with other stakeholds and provide support and training for schools affected by the Victorian bushfires in 2009. The aim of this initiative was to promote the mental health and wellbeing, along with the psychosocial and learning outcomes of children and youth in the context of school settings. ACATLGN worked with the Victorian Government, Principals Australia and other stakeholders to deliver programs and resources to affected schools and the principles, teachers and support staff.
Resources for practitioners
Preparing for anniversaries and memorials: Information for early childhood settings and primary schools
58.41 KB pdf
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, VIC; Australian Child and Adolescent Trauma, Loss and Grief Network
A 2-page summary sheet containing information for staff working with young children in the time around the 2009 Victorian bushfire anniversary.
Preparing for anniversaries and memorials: Information for secondary schools
57.96 KB pdf
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, VIC; Australian Child and Adolescent Trauma, Loss and Grief Network
A 2-page summary sheet containing information for staff working with secondary school aged children in the time around the 2009 Victorian bushfire anniversary.
Resources for Teachers: School Recovery Tool Kit
564.78 KB pdf
This excellent resource for teachers details the impact that trauma may have on teachers and children, how this may present in the classroom and what teachers and schools can do to offer support following disasters and traumatic events.
School Planning for the First Anniversary of the Victorian Bushfires
463.66 KB pdf
A 3-page practice summary containing information about anniversaries and memorials, including suggestions about activities for the classroom.
School Planning for the First Anniversary of the Victorian Bushfires
64.89 KB pdf
This resource provides information for teachers on how they can support children and young people during the anniversary of the Victorian bushfires.