Premier Daniel Andrew announced Ararat College, St Arnaud Secondary College and Horsham College were among 100 Victorian schools that would participate in the new program. 

He said more than 70,000 students would now have regular access to health care because of the $43.8-million program. 

“We know that young people – particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds – are the least likely to see a general practitioner, so putting doctors in schools will make sure these students have the access to health care they need,” he said.

Mr Andrews said the program would progressively roll out from the start of term one. 

Ararat College principal Geoff Sawyer said it was fantastic to be chosen for the program.

“We put in a lengthy, and I thought fairly persuasive, application because obviously young people at school would really benefit from the service being available,” he said. 

Mr Sawyer said the program would have wide reaching benefits, beyond the school yard. 

“It’s not a magic wand, it won’t solve all issues but a doctor will be an important part of our welfare team,” he said. 

“More services to help with the needs of young people, which seem to be growing not declining, is only a good thing. 

“It’s an exciting prospect. 

“Having needs addressed that might not otherwise be addressed will carry out into the community.”

Mr Sawyer said schools were chosen based on a range of factors including the socio-economic background of students. 

“It’s a fantastic addition to our welfare team,” he said. 

“We have a school nurse, year level co-ordinators, a chaplin, and a psychologist who visits two days a week. 

“A doctor would be able to work closely with that team and in some families it might be too hard to organise, have the money for or even get to doctors otherwise.

“It opens the opportunities for students to remain healthy.”

Mr Sawyer said the program would look after the best interest of students and provide accessible health care. 

The $34.8-million Doctors in Secondary Schools program, will include $25.8 million for staff and operational costs and $18 million to build consultation rooms.