CDU enters first-of-its-kind partnership to boost health literacy in Territory schools

A groundbreaking new initiative aimed at boosting health awareness and outcomes across the Northern Territory’s (NT) secondary schools has launched for the first time at Dripstone Middle School in Darwin.

Led by staff and students from Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Faculty of Health, the CDU Dripstone Health Academy is the first-of-its-kind in the NT and will provide valuable practical experience in tertiary studies as well as promote improved health awareness and health outcomes for students aged 14-years and above. 

The first session, ‘Introduction to the Australian Healthcare System,' guided students through the process of setting up their own myGov accounts to increase confidence, accessibility and literacy with the Australian healthcare system.  

In Australia, once a young person turns 14, their parents can no longer access their Medicare claims history or immunisation records. By age 15, they become eligible to apply for their own Medicare card.

Future Health Academy sessions will include Dripstone Middle School students attending CDU’s Casuarina Campus to undertake training and workshops in medicine and allied health - providing hands-on learning opportunities and a powerful bridging pathway between school and tertiary students. 

CDU students studying a Bachelor of Health Science or Bachelor of Public Health will also deliver valuable health education programs on topics such as nutrition, mental health, physical activity, and healthy living, directly benefiting the school community. 

CDU Course Coordinator Health Science (CDU School of Allied Health Science – Faculty of Health) Angela Sheedy said the Health Academy provided a pathway for secondary school students to access a world class tertiary health sciences education while still at school. 

“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. 

“Together, we aim to foster a culture of lifelong learning and service.”

Dripstone Middle School Principal Nektaria Pikoulos said the partnership was part of ongoing work with CDU to transform opportunities for students and strengthen the school community.

“This innovative program where Dripstone Middle School has a CDU Health Academy 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.”

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.

“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 launch of the CDU Dripstone Health Academy follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two educational institutions in November last year – with further secondary school partnerships to follow.