The National Self-Detection Program for Scoliosis

Scoliosis is the most common type of spinal curvature.

When scoliosis develops the spine bends sideways and rotates along it’s vertical axis. These changes have cosmetic and physiological effects with long-term consequences which may result in significant health problems when a severe curve is present.

The optimum time for the detection of scoliosis is just after the onset of the adolescent growth spurt, and this corresponds to Years 5-7 for the majority of girls.

This program is endorsed by the Paediatrics and Child Health Division of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

Over the past several decades we have seen major advances in the management of spinal deformity generally and of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in particular. It is now well established that early detection of AIS, and treatment where indicated, result in better outcomes as might well be expected on general principles. This is the basis of screening adolescent girls for scoliosis because in the early stages of curve development the girls have no symptoms.

Please click on the link below for further information.

https://www.scoliosis-australia.org/

Visit by Registered Nurse for Free Prep Vision Screening

Good vision is important for a child’s educational, physical, and social development. Vision screening checks for common eye conditions that may impact your child’s ability to see and therefore impact their learning and development.

A Registered Nurse will be visiting the school Term 4, Week 1 on Thursday 6th October to conduct vision screening for children in their Prep year. An email with further information on the program and a link to complete the online consent form has been emailed to all Prep families. Parents do not need to be present for screening, however if you would like to be, please contact the school to arrange this.

If your child’s vision is screened, you will be advised of the results in writing. If a vision concern is found, you will receive a phone call from the nurse to discuss referral to an eye health professional for further assessment. If a vision concern is identified and your child requires glasses, eligible health care card holders may be assisted with free basic glasses through the Spectacle Supply Scheme.

Participation in vision screening is not compulsory. If you do not wish for your child to participate in screening, please complete the consent form and indicate that you wish to decline screening.

If you have any questions, please contact the Primary School Nurse Health Readiness Program on 1800 687 372 or the College Nurses on (07) 5436 7311.

Mrs Sharon Middleton and Mrs Maree Hooper, College Nurses