Monash Children’s Hospital School officially opened

The Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Education James Merlino officially opened the Monash Children’s Hospital School on Sunday 15 October 2017.

Welcomed to Monash Children’s Hospital by School Principal Colin Dobson, the Premier and Minister visited young people as they worked alongside teaching staff.

The Monash Children’s Hospital School will be run by the Department of Education.

“The school is uniquely incorporated within the hospital; it’s unlike anything else in the health system,” Mr Dobson said.

“This will help us meet the needs of young people with chronic medical or mental health issues who are at-risk of disengaging from education, or are unable to attend their regular school.”

Teachers will deliver classes right throughout the hospital – at students’ bedsides, in small activity rooms and in central ward areas. There will soon also be four purpose-designed classrooms and a specialist art room.

The classrooms will feature hot-desk areas and are equipped with cameras and the latest technology to enable students to virtually connect with teachers and classmates at their regular school and with their families at home.

“Being in out and of hospital is tough on kids. Not only do they miss their friends but it can be hard to keep up with their school work,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

“This school will help them stay connected and keep on top of their studies.”

Minister for Education James Merlino said that young people and children who miss out on school for extended periods are often reluctant to return.

“This new school will help keep students engaged while they get better and ensure they don’t fall behind,” Minister Merlino said.

For more information about the Monash Children’s Hospital school click here.

Pictured: Gracie and Poppy chat with Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews at the collaborative work desks in Canopy, which are located beside the nurses’ working station.

Pictured: Sophia having a one-on-one teaching session with Monash Children’s Hospital teacher, Heidi Gilmour.

Pictured from left to right: Patients and students, Mikayla, Gracie and Poppy.

Pictured from left to right: Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, Minister for Education James Merlino and Monash Children’s Hospital School Principal Colin Dobson.