How Dr Angela is tailoring her support to the unique needs of every student at Djarragun College
Before Dr Angela became the go-to paediatrician for students at Djarragun College, she was a kid who loved asking questions and figuring out how things worked, especially the human body. That curiosity led her to study biomedical science at Monash University, then medicine at the University of Melbourne, where she graduated with first class honours. She went on to train at some of Melbourne’s busiest children’s hospitals before swapping the city for the Top End, Central Australia and later, Cairns.
“I’ve always been drawn to working with young people,” Dr Angela said. “There’s something really special about helping them find their strengths and feel confident in who they are. Every child learns differently, and it’s our job to figure out what learning systems works best for them.”
Angela sees schools as one of the best places to truly connect with young people.
“When I meet students at school, they’re in a space they know. They don’t have to walk into a clinic and feel like a patient. They can just be themselves,” she says.
At Djarragun, Angela supports students with a range of health needs. Most often, she sees developmental and behavioural concerns, such as ADHD, autism and learning difficulties. Her approach is practical and tailored, working closely with teachers, families and other health professionals.
“Some respond well to visual aids, others need hands-on activities. We might change how they sit in class or work with a psychologist to understand their learning style. It’s all about helping each student succeed in a way that works for them.”
Angela is part of a collaborative team at Ngak Min Health. She works with nurses and GPs to manage students’ health, while admin staff help introduce her to families and keep things running smoothly. She also partners with psychologists, speech pathologists and occupational therapists to get a full picture of each young person’s needs.
At the heart of Angela’s work is cultural respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. She sees her role as a partner and ally.
“I’m here to be of service,” she says. “It’s about listening and understanding, not coming in as someone who talks down. Many families have had negative experiences in the past, so I always aim to make sure they feel safe and respected.”
Dr Angela knows that building trust takes time and that once it’s earned, it must be protected.
“I try to meet students and families where they’re at. That means coming with the right mindset, listening properly and being open to learning from them too.”
When it comes to health education, Angela keeps things simple and supportive. She encourages students to speak up early whether it’s about mental health, physical concerns or learning challenges.
“I always say, ‘there’s a team here to support you. If you’re struggling with anything, don’t wait. Talk to someone’.”
Angela is also focused on prevention. She believes in helping students build healthy habits early, especially while they’re still learning how to look after themselves.
“If we can set them up now to stay away from vaping, eat well, stay active and get vaccinated it gives them a better chance at long-term health,” she says.
Angela says she stays motivated by the students themselves.
“All young people are incredible. Everyone has something to offer. I’ve never met a young person who didn’t have a strength worth celebrating – whether that’s art, sport, kindness or a great sense of humour.”
Looking to the future, Angela hopes to walk alongside Djarragun students as they finish school and begin adult life.
“My hope is to see them leave here strong and proud, with confidence and purpose,” she says. “I want them to know they’re capable and that they’ve got people behind them, cheering them on.”
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