Aformal agreement between the State Government and South Australia’s three leading universities will provide better opportunities for allied health students to undertake practical work experience in our state’s schools – while also providing schools with extra wellbeing resources.

This includes those studying occupational therapy, psychology, speech pathology and social work.

Pathways for allied health university students to arrange work placements in government schools will be simplified, in a bid to meet growing industry demands.

A Memorandum of Intent (MOI) has been signed by the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer with three universities – the University of Adelaide, University of South Australia and Flinders University – agreeing to work together on an improved placement program in government schools.

This agreement delivers on the Malinauskas Labor Government’s election commitment to negotiate an agreement with South Australian universities to increase university student placements in public schools.

By improving the placement program, it’s also hoped allied health students will be able to identify a clear employment pathway into valuable roles in the public education system.

The MOI will also benefit schools, providing an easier direct pathway for students to provide valuable assistance to allied health professionals working in the sector.

The Department for Education is a large employer of those with allied health qualifications, with more than 360 currently employed and working across our schools.