There is a primary school in Papunya, but throughout the whole of Papunya region there are no secondary education facilities. Students who have completed primary school therefore have to move to Alice Springs to further their education. There is a strong wish for a regional high school in Papunya but this proposal has not been well received at a government level so far. A number of Papunya children attend school in Alice Springs but usually leave school at 15. Health NT Health Services advised Bush Talks that the health clinic is well equipped with all essential primary health care programs evident.
Staff are very stable.
There are 2 resident nurses, one of whom is a midwife. Staff are not appointed until they have completed a five week foundation skills program and have a high level of knowledge about the delivery of primary health care services to Aboriginal communities. The Health Council participates in the recruitment of nurses. All health staff regularly attend professional development modules to ensure the level of competence meets the highest standards. In addition to visiting program experts and specialists a male nurse visits Papunya fortnightly to deliver the Mean's Health program.