Ashley Howells exemplifies the highest standard of care and commitment in her role as our School Health Nurse. In every aspect of her work, Ashley demonstrates unwavering courage, stepping into the most challenging and complex situations with a calm and compassionate approach. She has supported students and families facing extreme adversity—situations where well-being and safety have been at significant risk. Through her expert medical knowledge, deep empathy, and tireless advocacy, she has ensured that the most vulnerable members of our community receive the care and support they need.

Ashley embodies growth, continuously expanding her expertise to navigate the evolving medical and well-being challenges our students face. Whether it’s managing critical health concerns, coordinating multi-agency support, or providing essential education to staff and students, she consistently seeks ways to improve outcomes. Her ability to translate complex medical issues into practical, student-centred solutions makes her an invaluable asset to our college.

Through every interaction, Ashley fosters respect, treating students, families, and colleagues with dignity and understanding. She approaches every case—no matter how confronting or complex—with a non-judgmental, student-first mindset, ensuring that all voices are heard and that support is tailored to individual needs.

Ashley takes immense responsibility in her role, not only ensuring medical needs are met but also advocating fiercely for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Her leadership in critical situations has been instrumental in protecting students from harm and ensuring their continued access to education, healthcare, and well-being support.

Above all, Ashley champions connection—she builds trusted relationships with students, families, staff, and external agencies, creating a network of care that extends far beyond the walls of our college. Her ability to bring people together in times of crisis, to facilitate conversations that lead to real change, and to provide a safe and supportive presence for all is truly extraordinary.

There are few people who so naturally embody the Department’s core values while making such a profound impact on the lives of others. Ashley Howells is not just a health professional; she is a lifeline, an advocate, and a true cornerstone of our community. Her outstanding work, particularly in the most complex and high-risk cases, is nothing short of remarkable, and she is truly deserving of the DAISY Award.

Ashley has gone above and beyond for the students and staff she works with at all of her schools. She is highly knowledgeable in working with students with complex physical and/or mental health issues.

Ashley advocates heavily for the students she works with to ensure that their needs are being met at school and within the wider community.
Ashley also advocates strongly for staff mental health and wellbeing in all of her workspaces. She always has some space to support staff with difficult moments.

Ashley is always happy to help with any problems - even the little ones! I come to her with storage questions from the students, and she is always happy to chat and look for solutions, even for small things!

Ashley has been the driving force in introducing Therapy Dogs into multiple colleges throughout the Hobart area during their Health and Wellness Expos. Therapy Paws Tasmania was contacted by Ashley at the commencement of her employment in the college space. The children have been the beneficiaries of this. Teenagers who sometimes show little emotion at school are so excited when the dogs arrive at school. Certain students, who are struggling, benefit the most. The dogs know their situation and naturally gravitate towards them. Through Ashley's implementation of the dogs in the Education sector, we have also visited another school after the tragic passing of one of their students, and the dogs provided immense support to both students and staff. She is an absolute joy to work with, and her love for her job is inspiring.

Ashley goes out of her way to make each child feel welcomed and has created warm, trusting relationships where all the children feel safe to talk and ask questions. Her office is full of laughter, and her bubbly personality makes everyone around her happy.
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For setting up an amazing assistance shelf in the office, full of everything a student in need may require. From sanitary items to underwear, shower gels, deodorants, etc. I have worked in a few schools, and this is the best set-up I have seen! Also, for her quirky, kind nature that the students and staff love about her. We are lucky to have her on board!
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I have worked in 2 schools with Ashley; she is always bright, bubbly, and positive. Her attitude invites the students to interact with her, and she is always available to the students.
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Ashley helps our school by going above and beyond to build rapport with students and encourages students to make great choices that support their well-being. She is friendly and cheerful with all members of our school community.
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She is outgoing and has a great connection with the students (e.g., if not otherwise occupied during breaks, she sits in the playground knitting, and the students often approach her for a chat). She is quirky and a great asset to our school, and we love her!
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Ashley is so kind and caring amongst all the staff and students. The students often look to her for assistance or even for a safe space and someone to talk to. Keep being amazing!
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Ashley goes out of her way to support not just the kids' physical health but their overall well-being. My kids recently lost their dad, and Ashley made sure that the staff were informed and arranged for the school counsellor to meet up with the girls.  She always stops and chats with them and has built a great trust relationship with them.