Box Hill Institute

Box Hill Institute’s (BHI) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit (ATSIU) has introduced a robust case management system called ‘PACS’ (Pastoral Academic and Cultural Support) that has significantly increased engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Introduced in February 2023, the PACS program was designed to provide students with proactive support to allow for early intervention against academic, personal and career-related barriers.

Since its introduction, PACS has provided 153 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with tailored individualised support, and student engagement with the ATSIU team has increased by 600%^[1].

“We want to provide a program that allows us to intervene early and often, giving our students the best chance to overcome challenges,” said BHI’s Senior Koorie Liaison Officer, Tamara Charles.

“Regular check-ins with students enable us to gather valuable case management data. This data helps to classify students based on the barriers they face and the level of support they require.”

In order to classify students, the ATSIU implemented a traffic light rating system that categorises students as either red (high need), orange (medium need) or green (low need).

Using this information, the ATSIU implements direct monthly support, including a full wraparound service for students helping to enhance their educational success, employment confidence and emotional wellbeing.

“Through the PACS program, students gain access to literacy and numeracy support, mental health and wellbeing support, scholarship opportunities and career guidance,” said Ms Charles.

“We are lucky to have the support of our Student Life team which allows us to provide each student with the support that is right for their needs.”

Box Hill Institute Associate Director of Student Life, Simone Spicer, said the program has been extraordinarily successful at engaging the students.

“I’m immensely proud of the work our ATSIU and Student Life team have been doing,” said Ms Spicer.

“The unique case management framework creates a visual snapshot of our cohort’s needs and progress… it identifies the key barriers and trends that require attention.”

“The PACS program allows us to provide comprehensive support and build meaningful relationships with our students giving them the best chance at success.”

The significance of the PACS program is not lost on Ms Charles either.

“I’m just grateful that our students have access to PACS, because when I was studying this kind of thing just didn’t exist.”

“Everyone deserves a fair opportunity at education and employment, and I’m so proud to work for an organisation that is making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.”

^[1] Wurreker Report 2023, p 7-8 (for further information about this report please contact media@boxhill.edu.au)