Abstract
Chapter 9 takes a strengths-based approach to the innovative solutions necessary to address the wide gap in the health, wellbeing, and education of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples when compared with non-Indigenous people. Evidence consistently places the life expectancy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at around ten years shorter than their non-Indigenous counterparts, but there is considerable hope. A growing body of evidence now supports health, wellbeing, and education practitioners using the social determinants of health to better inform Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander partnerships. This chapter explores the key health and wellbeing aspects that impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander engagement within schools. Specifically, this chapter outlines the advantages of a trauma-informed care approach for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and then continues with highlighting application of this approach for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in schools.