Kingston State School will host a one-stop-shop for education, health and community services as part of Queensland’s first FamilyLinQ school.
Education Minister Grace Grace said the Palaszczuk Government was partnering with The Bryan Foundation to deliver the school-based hub, opening in 2023.
“This is a fantastic announcement for the Kingston State School community, connecting local families with health services and training initiatives for parents,” Ms Grace said.
“We’re also establishing a second FamilyLinQ hub at the new primary school in Logan Reserve, opening in 2024.
“Building these two hubs represents investment of almost $19 million by the Palaszczuk Government, supporting 30 local construction jobs and contributing to our economic recovery plan.
“These hubs will feature onsite health services, a soft entry space including a kitchen and informal lounge and a central play space to connect families.
“They’ll also enable parents to engage in adult education and training programs to build their skills and qualifications.
“The hubs will be open to children already enrolled at the schools or future students, their parents, carers, siblings and other family members.
“I have no doubt that this initiative will make a positive difference to the lives of local families.”
Member for Woodridge Cameron Dick said the hub will help to establish new pathways for parents and children.
“This initiative is about community care and creating opportunities,” Mr Dick said.
“It will make it easier for families to get the health support they need, and remove barriers of entry for mums and dads looking to skill-up for a job.
“Everyone leads busy lives, so offering these services at a school makes sense.
“It’s great news that Kingston State School has been selected for the inaugural FamilyLinQ facility, and I look forward to seeing the build progress towards launch in 2023.”
Logan MP Linus Power said he was happy to see a new school in his electorate benefit from the initiative.
“I’m sure that the future families of the new primary school at Logan Reserve will welcome this hub with open arms,” Mr Power said.
Executive Chair of The Bryan Foundation Jill Simes said it was exciting to be part of the state’s first FamilyLinQ service.
“We are excited and committed to forming strong relationships throughout the community to support fully integrated health, education and community services within a welcoming and safe environment,” Ms Simes said.
“Equitable access to quality education is central to the Foundation’s philanthropic objectives, we believe this approach provides children and their families with valuable opportunities to reach their full potential.”
Kingston SS principal Trent Cowley said the school community was rapt with the announcement.
“This is such a wonderful opportunity for our entire school community, that will give our students and their families access to much needed health and wrap-around services,” Mr Cowley said.
