Four Western Australian public schools have been selected for a four-year trial that will connect students and families with greater wellbeing supports and wider health, community and social networks.
The Connected Community School trial – funded under the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement with the federal government – aims to ensure families can easily access community health and social services, while improving students’ educational and wellbeing outcomes beyond the classroom.
The schools selected for the $21 million trial, which will start in 2026, include:
- Ashburton Drive Primary School (in Gosnells)
- Clarkson Primary School
- Girrawheen Senior High School
- Roebourne District High School
Participating schools will consult with their community and stakeholders to work towards addressing specific local needs with a range of initiatives, such as making services available on site to remove barriers to access.
The trial also aims to strengthen ties within the community by developing partnerships and use of school facilities after hours with groups such as local sporting groups, community language groups and other community organisations.
The initiative reinforces the importance of education intersecting with the human services sector, which includes the Western Australian public health system, mental health, police, justice and community services.
WA Education and Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton said a Connected Community School is one that provides a range of services and activities, often beyond the school day, to help meet the needs of children, their families and the wider community.
“The aim of this trial is to provide the right support, at the right time, to really move the dial in terms of improving student wellbeing and outcomes over years.
“We know that schools achieve the best outcomes for students when they create strong relationships with families.
“Schools understand the needs of their local families best and will play a key role in identifying opportunities to provide additional support,” she said.
WA Health Minister Ms Meredith Hammat said stronger connections between education and health will help create healthier communities for the long term.
“A child’s wellbeing is central to their ability to learn. By connecting schools with health and wellbeing services, we can make sure families get support early and students have the best chance to succeed,” she said.
