Students from low-socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds are disproportionately burdened with health challenges, and low-SES schools report lower average academic achievement levels compared to others.

This report presents findings from a literature review conducted to examine the role of school-based health and allied health initiatives and their impact on student outcomes in Australia. It provides policymakers with insights into how these initiatives impact student outcomes.

Key findings

• Some school-based programs, when delivered effectively and in a way that supports learning, are associated with improved outcomes.
• Some approaches (such as multiple service initiatives) are more strongly evidenced, while others (such as mental health initiatives and nursing initiatives) show mixed results. 
• School-based health centres for students are associated with improved wellbeing and attendance outcomes, and may improve academic outcomes. 
• Counselling, psychology and therapy are also associated with improved wellbeing and may improve academic and attendance outcomes.  
• Effectiveness depends on factors including sustainable resourcing, stakeholder collaboration and implementation approach.