DASH (Dynamic, Active, Safe, Healthy)

DASH is a whole-of-classroom program for upper primary students that promotes positive mental health, community connection, and develops essential social and leadership skills.

On this page

  • Tier: Tier 1: Positive mental health promotion
  • Category of intervention: Local community-led mental health interventions
  • Strength of evidence: Level 3: Foundational and emerging evidence for program
  • Geographic location: Statewide

Program description

DASH aims to give young people the tools to strengthen their social and emotional skills, which are recognised as key factors in building positive mental health.

DASH involves 12 sessions for grade 5 and 6 students. Sessions use a mix of active games, discussions and work on a community project. This project is co-designed with local community organisations and promotes creativity and critical thinking. Police, emergency services and community agencies participate in the program as community role models. DASH sessions build social, emotional, and leadership skills which are then applied in a small group to the community project.

Intended outcomes

  • Increased community connectedness
  • Improved emotional wellbeing
  • Students are empowered to practice self-efficacy
  • Greater social awareness and empathy
  • Better problem-solving skills
  • Improved collaboration skills and relationships

Program details

Target audiencePrimary school students – upper
Program providerBlue Light Victoria Inc.
Delivery modeFace-to-face

Implementation considerations

  • Target population: Primary school students in grades 5–6.
  • Program adaptability: The program is suitable for diverse cohorts including:
    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
    • asylum seeker and refugee students
    • culturally and linguistically diverse students
    • LGBTIQA+ students
    • neurodivergent students
    • students with a disability.
  • Staffing: Schools are not required to backfill for teaching staff during the implementation of this program.
  • Training requirements: Teachers and other relevant staff will be required to attend an information session (of no more than one hour duration) prior to program delivery.
  • Factors to consider: The maximum number of student participants is 30. There is no minimum number of student participants required, however, rural schools are encouraged to cluster together to share costs and facilitate peer connections. DASH facilitators are the primary source of contact throughout the program. The Program Manager also has independent contact with schools to seek feedback about program delivery. The only equipment to be provided by the school is a suitable space (e.g. classroom) and the capability to run an audio-visual presentation.
  • Australian context: This program has been developed and applied in Australia (Victoria).

Cost

Minimum cost

$5,000+

Detailed cost

The cost for the full DASH program for one year is $8,393.39 (including GST).

This includes:

  • facilitator wages and training
  • program administration, management, and governance
  • program equipment and materials
  • community project production, coordination, and materials
  • program merchandise for students
  • uniforms
  • showcase event with catering.
Education

Updated

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