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This panel discussion, titled Addressing the Current Gaps in Student Wellbeing, will focus on the urgent need for proactive, data-driven approaches to supporting student mental health and emotional wellbeing in schools. The session will bring together thought leaders from government and the health sector to explore key challenges faced by schools, including the lack of real-time data on student wellbeing, inequities in access to support, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Panelists will delve into how current practices often react to wellbeing issues only after they have escalated, and will highlight the necessity of moving from a reactive to a preventative model. The discussion will address the role of real-time data in enabling early intervention, explore the importance of equitable access to wellbeing support, and examine how schools can implement continuous improvements to their wellbeing programs. Additionally, the conversation will include the critical role of technology and family involvement in supporting the mental and emotional health of students.
The panel aims to inspire action, urging participants to work collaboratively toward creating an inclusive, supportive school environment that fosters both emotional resilience and academic success. This session is an essential opportunity for senior executives in the government and health sectors to engage in meaningful conversations about shaping the future of student wellbeing
Gayle Walters has a background of over 25 years in the Queensland Public Sector and the Not-for-Profit space and is currently the Executive Director Strategy and Communications for PeakCare the preeminent peak body for the child and family sector in Queensland. Gayle has also previously held the position of Chief of Staff to a Queensland Government Minister for the Education, Youth Justice and Training and Skills portfolios and a Senior Policy Advisor to the Minister for Child Safety Youth and Women and the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence. Gayle has a strong background in social justice and human services working with and to improve the lives of children and families in Queensland, knowing the importance of early intervention programs and supports that keep families together and children in education so that they are on a pathway to prosperity.
Gayle has also held the position of President and Chair of P&Cs Qld, representing 1260 Parent and Citizens Associations across Queensland and advocating for the best possible educational outcomes for all students. Gayle has been acknowledged and recognized for her long-term commitment to ensuring every child has every chance in education across Queensland.
Dianne Giblin AM MICDA – CEO, Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO)
Dianne has worked in education in both paid and unpaid capacity for the past 32 years.
Nikki Bonus, CEO & Founder of Life Skills GO, brings over 20 years of experience in social-emotional literacy programs and real-time wellbeing data solutions. Life Skills GO platform helps schools detect patterns, deploy interventions, and enhance student wellbeing.
Sally Webster is Head of K12 Schools Industry, Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) at Amazon Web Services (AWS). Sally has over 15 years’ experience in the K-12 education sector both in the classroom and leading statewide programs.
