From Research to Impact: Celebrating Ten Paediatric Palliative Care Short Courses

Te Ārai members, Dr Gemma Aburn and Dr Tess Moeke-Maxwell, have just returned from Taranaki after delivering the tenth Paediatric Palliative Care in Aotearoa Short Course, alongside colleagues Lorna Wood (Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist) and Dr Stephen Laughton (Paediatric Neuro-Oncologist). Reaching this tenth course is a wonderful milestone and a testament to the commitment of everyone involved in strengthening paediatric palliative care across Aotearoa.

Gemma alongside attendees at the Taranaki Paediatric Palliative Care Short Course

The course was established following a research study supported by an Auckland Medical Research Foundation Project Grant between 2022 and 2024. Building on this work, the programme is now a formal University of Auckland two-day short course delivered with generous support from the Freemasons Foundation.

Thanks to this support, health professionals and staff from community support agencies are able to come together to learn about the fundamentals of caring for children with palliative care needs, share experiences, and build the relationships and networks that are so important for supporting children and whānau in their local communities.

Tess teaching through sharing her whānau experience

The course's next stop is Nelson on 16 to 17 November, and the team is already looking ahead with excitement. Planning is underway for three further regional courses in 2027, continuing to grow knowledge, confidence, and connections in paediatric palliative care across the country. We look forward to working with more healthcare and community professionals as this successful programme continues to expand its reach and impact. For more information about participating please contact Gemma.