Should students have to meet a wellbeing standard to achieve their TCE?

To achieve the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) students must meet 5 standards; focused on participation and achievement, future career/education plans, and competency in everyday English, mathematics and ICT skills (https://www.tasc.tas.gov.au/students/qualifications/tasmanian-certificate-of-education-tce/). Achieving these standards is an important contributor to ensuring graduates can successful transition to their adult lives, and achieve their full potential while contributing positively to their community. Another factor that will contribute to a person’s ability to achieve their full potential is their health and wellbeing. The health and wellbeing of the Tasmanian population is negatively affected by numerous health issues such as obesity and depression, that increase pressure on the health system and reduce work productivity. To better prepare graduates for looking after their future health we propose the addition of a health and wellbeing standard to the requirements of the TCE. This presentation will explore the need for this addition and discuss possibilities for its implementation.