STEMM 

 

Jacqui Dean, Paul Harris Fellow, creator of and driving force for the STEMM organisation described the work of STEMM, which offers a unique opportunity for teenagers though their pregnancy and motherhood especially where they have no other or little support networks.

 

Running out of Burnside State High School in an independent unit funded operated by volunteers and self-supporting fundraising. 

 

It supports teenagers through pregnancy in their preparation for motherhood and also to maintain the development of their own education as they embark motherhood.

 

The teenagers learn how to be loving mothers, to care for the child ,to balance motherhood and study as they work towards providing opportunity to the child that they had not been able to enjoy.

 

The school provides assistance which recognises the need to also care for the babies and infants as the mothers engage  in formal study – Tertiary Preparation Pathway, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and  Care, certificate II Business, Literacy, Numeracy, Distance Education, Barista Certificate and First Aid Certificate all contribute to a rich palate of opportunity for the young women to choose from to meet their individual needs.

 

There are also partnerships with TAFE and the University of the Sunshine Coast as well as vocational courses, all in the context of accommodating and respecting the importance of the mothers being able to care for their infants.

 

The Club donated $5,000 to assist in maintaining/developing opportunities for each mother and child.

10 September 2020