"After completing my master’s degree, I was left wondering ‘where to next?’.

“I stumbled upon the KickStart program. Initially, I had some reservations about moving into education, particularly as at the time I did not know a lot about the role and responsibilities of a school psychologist. Once I looked into it further, I found the KickStart program set the concrete foundations I wanted in my internship year for registration with Psychology Board of Australia.

“The intensive 12-week induction enabled me to gain an understanding of the role and responsibilities of a school psychologist, the public education system and how to navigate processes and relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

“Working alongside experienced psychologists made me feel supported and ready to grow.

“The KickStart program provided me with the necessary tools to best support children, young people and their families through their educational, social and wellbeing journey.

“It has been a privilege to be involved in the KickStart program, and to be able to work collaboratively with young people on a day-to-day basis."

“Joining the Kickstart program gave me an amazing opportunity to begin my career as a psychologist in a supportive environment.

“The format of the Kickstart program empowered me to learn skills and grow professionally. I was supported with plenty of supervision and access to experienced psychologists who were incredibly generous with their time, allowing me to make huge strides in my professional development. The program also connected me with a network of other early career psychologists.

“As a school psychologist I feel privileged working with a diverse range of children and young people, often, as their introduction to working with a mental health professional.

“I am proud of the work I am now doing and believe the Kickstart program was a fantastic introductory process which gave me skills and development opportunities for success in the role.”

“I found the KickStart program to be a game-changer, offering a small, dedicated group of fellow provisional psychologists with whom I could share both challenges and successes.

“The training was top-notch and ensured I had the practical skills needed and the program’s supportive environment really set the foundation for my growth as a school psychologist.

“One of the most valuable aspects of KickStart was the opportunity to shadow a variety of school counsellors and school psychologists. This experience helped me explore different ways of working and develop my own approach while fostering relationships across multiple schools.

“It’s an incredible program for any aspiring school psychologist.”

“Joining the KickStart program has been an incredibly rewarding journey for me, both professionally and personally.

“After 15 years in a corporate career, I knew I wanted to pivot toward a role where I could make a more meaningful impact on people’s lives. Completing my undergraduate degree, honours, and Master of Psychology was the foundation, but KickStart provided the perfect bridge to transition smoothly into my new role within the NSW Department of Education.

“The program's comprehensive support and collaborative spirit allowed me to grow with confidence and feel fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

“What made KickStart truly special was the nurturing environment it fostered. From the KickStart facilitator's insightful guidance to the camaraderie of my fellow KickStarters, I always felt empowered to explore my strengths. The program’s mix of practical role-plays and reflective sessions helped me gain clarity on the kind of psychologist I want to become.

“KickStart gave me the skills, knowledge, connections, and inspiration to not only thrive in my role but also to continuously grow as a professional. I’m excited for what lies ahead and the difference I can make in the lives of others.”