McAuley recognised at 2026 Victorian Protecting Children Awards
McAuley’s Education team has been recognised as a finalist in the Engaging Kids in School Award at the 2026 Victorian Protecting Children Awards, highlighting the team’s outstanding work supporting children and families recovering from family violence.
The annual awards honour people and teams who demonstrate excellence in working with children, young people and families. The Engaging Kids in School Award recognises those making a significant difference in children’s education journeys and supporting their engagement in learning.
McAuley’s Education program provides specialist support for children whose education has been disrupted by family violence. Working alongside mothers, children and schools, the team helps students reconnect with their learning, navigate school transitions and build confidence and hope for the future. The program’s trauma-informed approach also empowers mothers to navigate complex schooling systems and advocate for their children’s education.
In 2025, the program supported 23 students across 11 families to strengthen their connection to education, even during periods of significant trauma and disruption. Upon entering the program, 87% of students were at risk of disengagement or were not enrolled in school. After an average support period of just 4.4 months, this number reduced dramatically to 17%.
Being named a finalist is a significant achievement, recognising the impact McAuley’s Education team is having on children and families recovering from family violence.
Congratulations to Kids First Australia on the win for its Early Help program, which works alongside families, schools and community services to address barriers to school engagement and supports children to thrive in their education journey.
McAuley CEO, Jocelyn Bignold OAM, said being named as a finalist highlighted the importance of including education as part of a comprehensive family violence response.
“We are incredibly proud to see the work of our Education team acknowledged at the Victorian Protecting Children Awards.
“For children affected by family violence, education is often one of the first casualties. When children disengage from school, the impacts can be felt across every aspect of their wellbeing and development.
“Our team works tirelessly to rebuild children’s connection to learning and restore the confidence, stability and hope that education can provide. It’s wonderful to see their work recognised in this way.
“Congratulations to Kids First Australia on the well-deserved win, and to all finalists and winners whose work is helping children and young people across Victoria to be safe, supported and able to thrive.”