Monash Children’s Hospital School wins award for inclusive education

The award recognises the school’s exceptional commitment to ensuring every child and young person can access high-quality education, regardless of the health, wellbeing, or life challenges they may be experiencing. 

The achievement is a proud milestone for Monash Children’s Hospital School and reflects nearly a decade of innovation, collaboration and dedication from staff, as well as the strong partnerships that exist across Monash Health, Monash Children’s Hospital and Early in Life Mental Health Services (ELMHS). 

Accepting the award, Principal Colin Dobson said many colleagues had made the school’s unique multidisciplinary model possible. 

‘This award reflects what we can achieve when education and health work together with a shared commitment to children and young people,’ said Colin.  

‘When we began this journey, there was no blueprint for shaping Monash Children’s Hospital School. Instead, each of our staff helped influence and define the direction of our school.’ 

Breaking new ground 

Established within Monash Children’s Hospital, the school has grown into a nationally recognised model of educational inclusion and support. Over the past 9 years, staff have continually developed innovative programs, practices and strategies to meet the diverse needs of children and young people receiving healthcare. 

‘What makes the school unique is the close partnership between educators, clinicians and healthcare professionals, ensuring students remain connected to learning while navigating complex health challenges,’ Colin said. 

 ‘At the heart of everything we do are the relationships we build with children, families and our medical, health and educational colleagues.’

The recognition is a testament to the compassion, expertise and commitment of staff and reinforces the importance of integrated health and education services in improving outcomes for children, young people and families.

‘This award is a wonderful recognition of the extraordinary work undertaken by Monash Children’s Hospital School every day. Our educators work side by side with clinicians to ensure children and young people can continue their learning journey while receiving care, helping to provide a sense of normality, connection and hope during challenging times,’ MCH Operational Director and Director of Nursing, Danielle Smith, said. 

‘We are incredibly proud of the school’s achievements and the positive impact it has on the lives of patients and their families.’ 

‘This award recognises how wonderful the Monash Children’s Hospital School is and everything our clinicians and educators do to support young people during very difficult times, always with energy, enthusiasm and compassion,’ said Lilian Johnstone, Monash Children’s Program Interim Medical Director.

Monash Health congratulates the team at Monash Children’s Hospital School on this outstanding achievement and thanks all those who continue to make a difference in the lives of the young people and families they support every day.