Health & Dental Contacts

The Primary School Nursing Program is a free service offered by the Department of Education (the department).

It is available to all children attending government primary schools, English Language Schools, Catholic and independent schools in Victoria. It is part of a range of health and support services for school students and their families. The aims of the program are to promote child health and wellbeing and to assist in the early identification of children with potential health and development related learning difficulties.

The program offers families and caregivers:

• an assessment of any concerns you
may have regarding your child’s health,
wellbeing and development

• advice and information about your child’s
health, and referral to other services
if needed

• advice, information and support for
families and school communities to
promote the health and wellbeing of
children and families.

After the health assessment If the nurse has concerns about your child’s health after the assessment, the nurse may contact you. The nurse may suggest referring your child to another health professional or agency. A report will be sent to you, outlining
the outcome of your child’s assessment, if required.

Health assessments for older children (Grades 1–6)

If you or your child’s teachers have concerns about your child’s health, you can ask for the Primary School Nurse to assess your child. Referral forms are available at your child’s school or you can contact the nurse directly at the closest department regional office which for Yinnar Primary School is the Moe Regional Office 1300 338 738.   

Health assessments for children at English Language Schools or newly arrived from overseas

A health assessment may also be offered to the following children:

• all children attending English
Language schools

• any primary school children who
have recently arrived in Victoria from
residing overseas.

The Prep Health Assessment

A health assessment is offered to all children in their first year of primary school. Your child’s school will provide you with a
envelope containing information about the School Entrant Health Questionnaire (SEHQ). The questionnaire can be completed online or you can request a paper copy. You are asked to give information about your child’s health history and any concerns
you may have about your child’s health, wellbeing and development. The SEHQ provides important information about your child which the nurse will use to understand any concerns and to conduct appropriate health assessments. If your child needs a brief health assessment, such as a vision or hearing test, the nurse will see your child at school.

Your child cannot receive a health assessment under the Primary School Nursing Program without your consent.

All information provided in your School Entrant Health Questionnaire is protected by the Department of Education Privacy and Information Collection Policy.

Victorian School Nursing Program Brochure