APPLYING make-up, baby care, making a bed, responsible renting and cooking are being taught in a landmark project at a central Queensland school.

An Independent Learning Centre has been set up in a house at Toolooa State High School in Gladstone, acting as a virtual classroom and meeting place.

TSHS learning support head of department Cathey Hale said the centre had one ultimate purpose: "To have our kids leave high school being able to live independently in their own place."

"We have lots and lots lots of kids who, for various reasons, are struggling out there in the big bad world and it is just gearing them for that," she said.

Real estate agents are brought in to talk to year 12 students about renting.

How to make a bed and wash clothes, personal health care – including self-esteem and make-up – and parenting programs are taught in the house, which also serves as a meeting place for indigenous students.

Ms Hale said the idea for the house came after several girls fell pregnant and the school was looking for ways to keep them engaged in school. The school's first sleepover creating virtual baby scenarios will be held next month.

Principal Alan Whitfield said the house was a tremendous idea that had the community's support and input.

While schools worked in partnership with parents enhancing students' life skills, he believed it was the school's responsibility to step in if they identified a gap and were able to help break a cycle.

Queensland Council of Parents and Citizens Associations president Margaret Black encouraged the concept.

"This is a good thing, all children need the opportunity to finish schooling and we wish them well with it," she said.

An Education Queensland spokeswoman said some schools had integrated laundry and cooking duties in practical areas to help teach students basic skills.