Dripstone Middle School launches health academy with CDU
An ‘innovative’ partnership between a Top End university health faculty and a middle school has launched the Territory’s first school health academy. Read the details.
Education
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A groundbreaking partnership between the Charles Darwin University health faculty and Dripstone Middle School has established a Territory-first school health academy.
The CDU Dripstone Health Academy will give students the opportunity to undertake hands-on learning through workshops and training in medicine and allied health, including visits to the Casuarina CDU campus.
CDU Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Public Health students will also benefit from the reciprocal relationship by delivering health education programs on topics such as nutrition, mental health, physical activity, and healthy living.
Dripstone Middle School principal Nektaria Pikoulos said the partnership would give students a valuable pathway onto further health studies.
“This innovative program will connect our students with CDU’s expert staff and allow students to explore their future pathways while still in high school,” Ms Pikoulos said.
“Together we’re unlocking new pathways and giving our students knowledge and skills to achieve their full potential.”
CDU Faculty of Health course co-ordinator Angela Sheedy said the program would prepare the Territory’s “future health professionals”.
“We’re facilitating a collaborative environment where CDU staff and students engage in practical learning experiences and community outreach at Dripstone, preparing future health professionals who are committed to improving health outcomes and promoting health equity across the NT,” Ms Sheedy said.
The first session for the CDU Dripstone Health Academy on April 28 saw CDU students educate middle school students about the Australian healthcare system, including a valuable lesson in navigating the myGov website.
Dripstone Middle School science teacher Roopa Bandi said the partnership would enhance student learning across the sciences.
“Health professionals from CDU worked with our Year 9 classes to share valuable insights into a range of areas, including myGov,” Ms Bandi said.
“The sessions were very well received, with students thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to learn directly from university peers.
“We look forward to continuing this enriching partnership and providing more real-world learning experiences for our students.”
The partnership between the two educational institutions was formed in November last year when they signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch the health academy.
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