Students have a say in their wellbeing

Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Education and Training

A total of 95 per cent of Tasmanian students reported they had a good relationship and support from their teachers, according to data from the recent Student Wellbeing Survey.

The survey was completed by a total of 28,600 students in years 4-12 from each Tasmanian Government school during Term 3, 2019.

This is the first time data of its kind has been collected in our schools and is a significant step forward in understanding the wellbeing of our learners.

We know that key to improving student wellbeing is listening to students and understanding their needs. Students reported in the survey that:

  • Wellbeing means …”How healthy you are, whether or not you feel good, and how you feel at school and at home.”
  • Our school wants to know about our wellbeing because … “If you get bullied your sleeping schedule can change quite a lot. … If you’re tired, you might not be able to concentrate and listen to the teacher.”
  • When my wellbeing is low, to make me feel better I … “stop thinking about it and go do something fun… play outside with my friends … spend time with my family … or talk to one of my favourite teachers”

This survey will take place annually with the data providing a deeper insight into the range of factors that influence a young person’s learning and engagement.

Schools will work closely with families and the broader school community to understand the wellbeing data and use it to positively impact students.

The survey data will be used to plan and implement programs and professional learning to directly support the wellbeing of all students such as:

Bullying Stops Here; Scholarships; Independent Living Assistance; School psychologists; Social Workers; School Health Nurse Program; Student Health Initiative; Speak Up! Stay ChatTy; Be You; Respectful Schools Support Team; LGBTI Working Group.

The Hodgman majority Liberal Government is committed to ensuring our students are successful learners in a safe and welcoming environment.

/Public Release. View in full here.