New tools help kids have happy visits to hospital
A new approach to learning is being implemented in the classroom at the Hospital School at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH), designed to help young patients stay connected with mainstream schooling.
Driven by the new teacher in charge, Ruth Furbey, the new approach includes introduced hands-on learning experiences designed to help patients process any trauma responses associated with hospital visits.
'Being in hospital is not fun, so we're pleased to have already seen positive outcomes since launching new learning tools – for the children and their families, as well as for all the team committed to The Hospital School,' Ruth said.
'Teamwork has been the key to the success of our vision to reinvigorate the Hospital School in 2024.'
For over 40 years, the RDH Hospital School, located on the fifth floor, has been supporting children who present to hospital with a range of ailments, from broken bones to chronic illness.
Whilst admitted to RDH, children aged four to 17 years old are able to access the school, providing an opportunity for young patients to continue their education and re-engage with mainstream schooling.
To help boost engagement, students are able to access a range of resources including educational games, arts and crafts, a library and technology.
'It is a privilege to collaborate with Nakara Primary School to ensure our young patients can remain connected with their schooling while receiving the treatment they need,' Sara-Ann Harn, A/Co-Director Division Women, Children and Youth, Royal Darwin Hospital, NT Health, said.
'Implementing innovative and dynamic approaches to education aligns with our values to provide quality patient and family-centred care.
'For our staff, it means a lot to be able to support children to re-engage with learning and continue to enjoy their educational journey.'
During her time in hospital, Grade 6 student Deesha attended The Hospital School and engaged in a range of activities, including reading and playing educational board games.
'My favourite subject has been art. I have also been playing scrabble with Ruth,' Deesha said.
The Hospital School operates from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8:30am – 3:00pm and is closed during general school holidays.
For more information about the Hospital School visit, go to the Royal Darwin Hospital - School website.
