Sick children in Melbourne’s south-east now have access to a world class education while continuing life-saving medical treatment with the opening of the new state-of-the-art Monash Children’s Hospital school.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Education James Merlino opened the $6.8 million school for children and young people who are at-risk of disengaging from education, or unable to attend their regular school.
“Being in out and of hospital is tough on kids – not only do they miss their friends but it can be hard to keep up with their school work – this school will help them stay connected and keep on top of their studies,” says Premier Daniel Andrews.
Teachers deliver classes throughout the hospital – at students’ bedsides, in small activity rooms and in central ward areas, as well as in four purpose-designed classrooms and a specialist art room.
The classrooms feature the latest technology to enable students to virtually connect with teachers and classmates at their regular school and families at home. The school has capacity to provide an education to about 170 students a day. The $250 million Monash Children’s Hospital opened its doors earlier this year, and provides life-saving care to kids in Melbourne’s south-east, the Mornington Peninsula and Gippsland.
