Queensland Academy for Health Sciences

The QAHS wellbeing framework is based on a Positive Psychology approach that grounds all health and wellbeing initiatives to help staff and students thrive. The Wellbeing Mission Statement commits to the health and wellbeing of the QAHS community, guiding members to develop strengths, positive relationships, resilience and optimistic dispositions so they can bounce forward and live the IB Learner Profile. The QAHS Three Year Plan for Wellbeing aligns the five core elements of wellbeing with PERMA+ across staff, students and the broader community. The environment fosters belonging and supports strategies that help individuals grow personally and socially. This wellbeing focus underpins learning and participation in the IB Diploma program.

English is the language of instruction at QAHS. The language policy recognises multilingualism and provides access for students learning in languages other than English, including options for Language B and a school-supported self-taught language program (SSSTL) to foster multilingual development. Students with an English as an Additional Language (EAL) background receive appropriate second-language support in English, which may include in-class support or withdrawal classes. If a student is less proficient in English than in their mother tongue, appropriate language support is provided to assist language development and academic success. Fluency in English is expected for academic purposes, and the policy supports bilingual approaches to maintain linguistic and cultural diversity.

The Inclusion Policy recognises mental health as a key element of student support and outlines procedures to identify and respond to mental health needs. The Student Services Team, including the Guidance Officer, coordinates identification, planning and delivery of wellbeing supports and may involve external providers when required. On-campus resources include access to a Guidance Officer and, as needed, a School Based Youth Health Nurse (SBYHN) to support student health and wellbeing. The policy emphasizes case-managed support and ongoing monitoring of student wellbeing and coping strategies.

The Complaints Management Policy requires harm or risk of harm to a student to be dealt with under the Student Protection procedure. The Inclusion Policy sets out identification, support and safeguarding processes, with the Guidance Officer and Student Services Team coordinating responses to ensure safety, belonging and rights for all students. On-campus health and wellbeing supports, including the SBYHN, may be involved, and external providers can be engaged when necessary to safeguard students. Staff and parents collaborate to address concerns and protect student welfare in line with Education Queensland guidelines.