What’s happening?
As Carinity Education Rockhampton’s Student Wellbeing Coordinator, Bridgitte Tones is dedicated to empowering students and mentoring youth workers to provide high-level support. Her leadership fosters a culture of growth and excellence while advocating for student wellbeing through strong partnerships with families, caregivers, and support agencies.
Why it matters?
Bridgitte’s work is vital in ensuring students—especially those facing complex personal and social challenges—receive the necessary support to succeed. She collaborates with key organisations, including Child Safety, Youth Justice, and mental health services, to provide holistic care. Her innovative outreach program allows students engaged with youth justice or child safety to continue their education and access essential wellbeing support.
Local Impact
Bridgitte’s leadership strengthens the Rockhampton community by bridging gaps between vulnerable youth and crucial support services. Her advocacy creates opportunities for students who might otherwise struggle to stay engaged in education.
By the numbers:
- Carinity Education Rockhampton supports numerous students who require personalised wellbeing services.
- Bridgitte partners with multiple organisations, including HeadSpace, Lives Lived Well, and Queensland Police Service, to provide comprehensive care.
- Her outreach program ensures students unable to attend school in person still receive education and wellbeing assistance.
Zoom In
Deputy Principal Danielle New describes Bridgitte as someone who “cultivates a culture of growth and excellence through continuous mentorship and guidance.” She commends her “exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change for her students, her team, and the broader community.”
Bridgitte sees her role as more than just advocacy—it’s about building relationships and trust. “My goal is to provide adaptive support, reaching out with the right support at the right time, building relationships and trust before expecting a young person to take on the huge challenges that go with getting an education these days,” she said.
Zoom Out
The impact of youth advocacy extends beyond schools. Bridgitte’s collaboration with external providers ensures a comprehensive safety net for young people navigating personal and social hardships. By fostering a network of support services, she helps shape a stronger, more resilient community in Rockhampton.
What to look for next?
Bridgitte remains committed to driving positive change. She continues developing new programs and strengthening partnerships to ensure students receive the support they need. As International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, she takes time to reflect on the powerful women who inspire her.
“I am truly lucky to have so many examples of wonderful female role models, forward-thinking women driving change within our sector and lobbying for the needs of others,” she said. “Every day I come to work I get to see a student or many actively work towards achieving a life goal. What could be more motivating than that?”
