My name is Natalie Hayes and I am very excited to be stepping into the role of Defence School Mentor at St John the Evangelist Catholic High School. 

I have a background in teaching Art and am an experienced Defence School Mentor.  I am a Defence spouse and have three children of my own. 

My lived experience as a Defence spouse in the Shoalhaven has spanned over 15 years and during that time our family has lived through a number of lengthy deployments.  I am very passionate about supporting Defence families and am very excited to have the opportunity to support the Defence families within St John's school community.  

An important aspect of my role is to offer extra support to students who have a serving member of the ADF who is currently away due to deployment or training. To assist me in providing your child with additional support during these times, it is greatly appreciated that you inform the school of any upcoming deployments or time away due to deployment, training or MWDU. This will enable me to provide your child with extra support throughout those times. 

While many of you may already have these phone numbers recorded, it is always a great reminder to seek assistance and support if you feel you may need it. 

Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling service provides free counselling to current and ex serving ADF members and their families.  You can access this service by calling 1800 011 046.  Defence Member and Family Support provide emergency and crisis support and can be contacted on 1800 624 608.  If you would like to contact me I can be reached through the school office 4423 1666 or you can email me on hayesn01@dow.catholic.edu.au  

I look forward to getting to know you all over the next term.