Wellbeing

Supporting each student’s mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing is part of everyday school life.

How we support student wellbeing

We do this through:

• teachers help students feel welcome and included
• access to school counsellors and specialist staff
• programs that support health, social skills, attendance and positive behaviour
• transition to school and transition out programs
• clear expectations for behaviour and respectful relationships
• staff who get to know each child and work closely with families
• developing health care plans for students
• open communication about wellbeing and support.

Visit Our principal and staff to learn about our wellbeing and specialist support staff.

Health care

At our school, the health and safety of students are paramount. We recognise that many students require daily or emergency medication, whether for common conditions such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy, or for more complex health needs. To ensure every child receives appropriate care while at school, we follow robust procedures guided by individual health support plans.

Student health and medication support

Medication administration

If your child requires medication during school hours—whether continuously or for a short-term illness—you must inform the school immediately of any changes to their regular medication. Up-to-date medical information and necessary medications must be provided without delay. Our trained staff administer prescribed medications according to clear, documented instructions, which are detailed in the student’s Individual Health Support Plan developed in collaboration with parents/carers. Students generally do not carry their own medication unless a formal agreement is in place, considering the student’s maturity and medical advice.

Emergency medication and individual health support plans

For students with conditions that may necessitate an emergency response—such as severe asthma, Type 1 diabetes, epilepsy, or anaphylaxis—an Individual Health Support Plan is developed before or soon after enrolment. This personalised plan outlines the student’s health needs, medication administration (both daily and emergency) and emergency procedures to ensure swift and effective care. In emergencies, staff will respond immediately and call emergency services if needed.

Supporting students who become unwell at school

If a student displays signs of illness during the day, the school follows established protocols guided by the NSW Health A-Z of infectious diseases to provide appropriate care. This includes assessing symptoms, providing comfort, and notifying parents or carers promptly to determine if the student needs to go home or seek further medical attention.

Other medical conditions

We recognise that many students may have complex or less common medical conditions requiring specialised support. Parents and carers are encouraged to inform the school early—preferably before enrolment—to enable planning and collaboration with healthcare professionals. Our school works with families to develop tailored health support plans to meet these needs safely and effectively.

Working together for student wellbeing

Parents and carers play a critical role in partnering with the school to support their child’s health. Please inform the school principal as early as possible about any health conditions, medication needs, changes to regular medication, or concerns. This collaboration allows us to create a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Sick and recovering students

From time to time your child may get sick. If they display any of the following symptoms, they should stay at home and see a doctor if needed:

·       cold or flu symptoms

·       a fever of 38°C or above

·       vomiting or diarrhoea

·       cough or respiratory symptoms

·       rashes of an unknown origin

Newcastle Junior School has a duty of care to all its students. It will provide the necessary care as required if a student falls ill at school, has a seizure or has an accident. This may include calling emergency services or calling parent/carers to come and collect the student. Parent/Carers have the primary responsibility for the health needs of their child.

The school has a duty of care to its students and staff to exclude the risk of cross infection from sick or recovering students. Some students at NJS are at a higher risk to cross infection with compromised immune systems. Students who become unwell at school, or return before they are completely well, are best transferred to the care of a Parent/Guardian/Caregiver. Parent/Carers should consider if their child is well enough to participate in learning activities upon sending them to school.

Guidelines and factsheets for reducing the spread of infectious childhood diseases can be found on the link below, including when they can return to school:

Department guidelines and factsheet for student health supports

NJS Sick and recovering student policy

Supporting wellbeing at NJS

Positive behaviour for learning (PBL)

The zones of regulation program

Need support for your child's wellbeing?

Get in touch to talk about the right support for your child.

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