Supervision Symposium

Advancing Practice in Social Work & Occupational Therapy

Join us for an engaging and practice-focused symposium hosted by Deakin Warrnambool, bringing together social work and occupational therapy practitioners, supervisors, and educators from across the sector.

This one-day event will feature presentations by respected supervision researchers and experienced practitioners who will share insights into contemporary supervision with students, peers, and workers. Presentations will explore diverse supervision approaches, current challenges in the workforce, and emerging thinking, offering practical ideas and critical reflections relevant to industry settings. Professor Beth Crisp, Jane Wexler, Emily Gillmartin, Nikki Lyons and Madi Cashin.

The morning session will provide stimulating discussion and “food for thought”, supporting participants to reflect on supervision as a key professional responsibility and a vital component of workforce sustainability, quality practice, and practitioner wellbeing. This session is aimed at all members of health and community services, students and interested professionals.

A catered lunch and dedicated networking time will offer valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues across disciplines, organisations, and practice contexts.

The afternoon session is designed specifically for:

• New student supervisors in social work and occupational therapy specific contexts (two sessions offered – Occupational Therapy OR Social Work Student Supervision)
• Practitioners transitioning into supervision roles
• Experienced supervisors seeking a refresher or renewed confidence in supervising placement students.

This practical session will focus on building supervision capability, clarifying expectations of student supervision at Deakin, and strengthening skills for supervising students in contemporary practice environments.

Who should attend:

• Social work and occupational therapy practitioners
• Field educators and student supervisors
• Team leaders and senior clinicians
• Educators and practice supervisors across health, community, and human services

Whether you are new to student supervision or looking to deepen and refresh your practice, this symposium offers a supportive, collegial space to learn, connect, and strengthen supervision across professions.

Hopkins River West H1.20A

9.45am – welcome/tea & coffee.

10am – symposium presentations, panel discussion and Q & A.

12.30pm – lunch and networking.

Hopkins River Meeting Room H1.31

1pm – 2 hour student supervision training for Social Work placement students OR Occupational Therapy placement students (please select which session when registering.

3pm – close session.