Wellbeing Hub
Sarah Toohey - Guidance Officer
Celebrating International Nurse’s Day
Monday 12 May marked International Nurse’s Day, a time to recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions of nurses across the world and within our school community.
At The Gap SHS, we are fortunate to have Adrienne, our School-Based Youth Health Nurse, who supports the health and wellbeing of our students each Thursday. Adrienne plays a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming space where students can talk about their physical and mental health needs with care and confidentiality.
Whether it’s providing guidance, facilitating referrals, or simply being a trusted adult students can turn to, Adrienne is an essential part of our wellbeing network.
We thank Adrienne and all nurses for the compassion, dedication, and expertise they bring to their work every day. Happy International Nurse’s Day!
Chappy Week – Celebrating Our School Chaplain!
Week 5: 19 – 23 May 2025
Next week is Chappy Week, a chance for our school community to celebrate and recognise the incredible work of our school chaplain, Ms Kristen Akenson.
Chaplains play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of students, staff, and families—offering a safe space, a listening ear, and practical help. This week is all about showing our appreciation and coming together in a spirit of fun, connection, and gratitude.
What’s On for Chappy Week:
- Mega Pancake Breakfast – Wednesday, 7:45 am
- Pool Competition Finals – Thursday, 2nd Break
- Games and Activities – Wednesday, both breaks
- Bible Study – Thursday, 1st Break in E33
- TOASTED Breakfast Program – Thursday, 7:45 am
If you’d like to get involved or volunteer to support Chappy Week, please reach out to Kristen Akenson at kristen.akenson@suchaplaincy.org.au
Let’s come together to celebrate the important role our chaplain plays in building a caring and connected school community.
The Wellbeing Hub #2 GP:Free Health Checks Available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students
We’re pleased to share that our school-based GP, Dr Tania Macdonald, is now offering free and confidential Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Checks through Wellbeing Hub #2.
These comprehensive check-ups are designed to support the ongoing health and wellbeing of our students and are available during Dr Tania’s regular visits to the school.
Where: Wellbeing Hub #2
When: Wednesdays
To book: Students can email nurse.thegap@health.qld.gov.au, speak to a member of the Wellbeing Team, or self-refer via the link on the Student SharePoint.
We encourage eligible students to take advantage of this valuable service.
School Vaccination Program – Year 7 & Year 10
As part of the Queensland School Immunisation Program, Year 7 and Year 10 students at The Gap State High School will soon be offered important vaccinations to help protect against serious preventable diseases.
Why immunisation matters?
According to the World Health Organization, immunisation is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness and save lives—helping to stop around 2.5 million deaths globally each year.
Vaccinations offered through the school program:
Year 7 students:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): 1 dose
- Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough): 1 dose
For FAQ’s: Queensland School Immunisation Program Year 7 Vaccination Information Sheet
HPV explained (Video): HPV vaccine explained for parents and guardians | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
Year 10 students:
- Meningococcal ACWY strains: 1 dose
- Meningococcal B strain: 2 doses
For FAQs: Meningococcal ACWY Vaccination Information Sheet
These vaccinations are provided free of charge through the school, ensuring all eligible students can access vital protection.
To make an appointment to see the nurse, students can:
Email: nurse.thegap@health.qld.gov.au
Self-Refer via this link: School Based Youth Health Nurse - Young Person Self-Referral (Page 1 of 6) (office.com)
Visit your School Based Youth Health Nurse office on Thursdays, located in Lower E block
For more information, visit https://bit.ly/chqSBYHN