The State’s schools will soon have new ability to implement projects that will increase the health and wellbeing of their students and the school community, following new funding from the Department of Health.
All schools across the State, or their Parents and Citizens Associations, can apply for funds from the Department’s with priorities given to applications that increase healthy eating and address vaping.
The initiative follows growing concerns about the rising trend in the use and harmful effects of vaping, as well as the continued importance of promoting healthy eating to children and young people.
Minister for Health, Amber-Jade Sanderson said schools played an invaluable role in encouraging healthy lifestyles from an early age, which led to positive health and education outcomes for students.
She was supported by Minister for Education, Tony Buti who said health played a critical role in a child’s development throughout their schooling years from kindergarten to Year 12.
“It is a catalyst for their ability to learn and thrive,” Mr Buti said.
“School communities will now be able to provide targeted support for students and their families in ensuring they adopt a holistic, healthy outlook that can boost their educational long-term outcomes.”
A spokesperson for Healthway said applications for funding were strongly encouraged from schools in rural and remote areas, those with students representing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and-or those experiencing disadvantage.
Applications close on 24 March and more information can be accessed on the Healthway website at this PS News link.
