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Peer Assisted Learning Support (PALS)
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What is PALS?
PALS is the SCU Peer Assisted Learning Support (PALS) program, a place where all SCU students can get study help from fellow students.
Because PALS Mentors are students just like you, they understand your study challenges and have some great solutions to help keep you on track. PALS Mentors can help you with planning for assessments, understanding rubrics and referencing, time management strategies, and offering you all-round support.
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How can I talk to a PALS Mentor?
You can book a 30-minute online appointment with a suitable PALS Mentor any week of the term. Booking an online PALS Mentor appointment is a great way to get fast and knowledgeable support in a private setting with a fellow student.
Can any SCU student book time with a PALS Mentor?
Any student enrolled in a Southern Cross University unit can book a 30-minute online study support appointment with a PALS Mentor. There are 2 types of appointments:
PALS Peer Support Check-ins
These appointments are available to all enrolled SCU students. They are scheduled each Monday to Friday of term at 12:30pm, 1:00pm, 5:30pm or 6:00pm AEST time. Simply book a PALS Peer Support Check-in on your preferred day and time.
Book your PALS Peer Support Check-in
PALS Support Sessions for Targeted Units
Some students studying specific units may need extra support, so each term these units are allocated a carefully-chosen PALS Mentor who has already succeeded in that unit.
Term 5 2025 Targeted Units
| Unit code | Unit title | PALS Mentor |
|---|---|---|
| TCHR2002 | Children, Families and Communities | Elaine Martin |
| EDUC2013 | Human Society and it's Environments: Curriculum and Pedagogy | Tim Browne |
| LAWS2012 | Property Principles | Paul Klievens |
| EDUC1003 | Education and Philosophy: Playing with Thought | Tim Browne |
| LEGL1001 | Legal research and Writing | Kim Shaddick |
| HLTH1006 | Foundations of Interprofessional Health Practice | Paul Klievens |
Meet the PALS Mentors
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Paul Klievens
Paul is completing a Bachelor of Psychological Science/Bachelor of Laws double degree, returning to study after completing various vocational and academic qualifications in a range of sectors. He has a passion for mentoring and is focused on working smarter, not harder. He can guide you in developing effective study skills and habits, such as time management strategies and efficient note-taking techniques that will make learning more enjoyable and less stressful.
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Tim Browne
Tim is completing a Bachelor of Education (Primary/Secondary) and has loved wrapping his head around the SCU 6 x 6 teaching model, working out how to effectively cover the course materials and complete the assessments while balancing other life commitments. He shares what he is learning with his two primary-school-aged children, who inspire him to try new things and encourage me to keep going and stretch my comfort zones. He plans to share that encouragement along with his practical experience.
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Tina Heigberg
Tina is a third-year Occupational Therapy student, who completed a Public Relations degree 30 years ago, and has 36 years’ experience in people-focused roles. Being a second-year mentor who extensively utilised PALS in her first year, Tina attributes her success to the support she received. Tina believes that individuals are best supported through active listening, encouragement, and capacity-building through instilling confidence in existing capabilities, mixed in with a bit of gentle guidance.
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Kadie Vignes
Kadie is a second-year Psychological Science student aiming for a Masters in Clinical Psychology. With her background in support work and uni experience balancing academic and personal commitments, she understands students' challenges. Kadie provides an accomodating and empathetic environment, working cooperatively with students to address underlying struggles and break down challenges into manageable steps, helping them feel less overwhelmed and more confident in their ability to succeed.
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Elaine Martin
Third-year education student studying Bachelor of Primary/Early Education. Completing my degree as a mature-aged student and a mum of two small children, originally from the UK and now an Australian citizen. Looking forward to sharing my passion for education and time management techniques. Helping others to juggle study alongside family/personal life and helping you to achieve your study goals.
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Kim Shaddick
Kim is in the final year of her law degree and has a strong academic background with a PhD in science. Kim is passionate about environmental and human rights law and is dedicated to creating positive change for people and the planet. She understands the challenges of managing complex legal concepts, deadlines, and competing commitments, and is eager to support fellow students by sharing strategies for effective legal research, critical analysis, and time management to help them succeed.