Social workers will be assigned to 20 government schools across Victoria in a bid to reduce crime by preventing children from drifting into a life of violence.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Education Minister Ben Carroll today announced $5.6 million to implement 20 early intervention officers in at-risk schools from next year.

The social workers are expected to support at-risk students with their relationships, their sense of belonging and school attendance.

"We know the data tells us that disengagement from school is an early indicator that something's not quite right and also for some kids it does start that journey towards criminal activity," Allan said.

They won't be tasked with helping the worst youth offenders, including those before the courts.

The model is based on a

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