Queensland launches OP score review

Published Tuesday, 30 July, 2013 at 06:23 AM

Minister for Education, Training and Employment
The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek

An independent review is underway to ensure Queensland’s senior assessment and tertiary entrance processes continue to provide school leavers with fair and comprehensive recognition of their academic achievements.

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek said the Newman Government was delivering on another key commitment by seeking independent advice on how the current system could better meet the needs of Queensland students.

“Education has evolved significantly since school-based senior assessment was introduced in the early 1970s, followed by the Overall Position (OP) tertiary entrance system in 1992, highlighting the need for this review,” Mr Langbroek said.

“The reality is that school-based apprenticeships and vocational education and training are on the rise and senior students are using many different pathways to reach their tertiary destinations.  

“This review is an opportunity for us to ensure that the Queensland system reflects the multitude of ways that senior students can demonstrate achievement and the range of options available to students after they leave school.”

Mr Langbroek said the review, which was timely in the context of the new Australian Curriculum, would look at the merits of systems operating in other states and countries.

“The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) has been appointed through a public tender process to carry out the 12-month review,” he said.

“Professor Geoff Masters and Dr Gabrielle Matters from ACER will be the joint leaders of the review.

“It is essential for this review to be conducted independently and both Professor Masters and Dr Matters are recognised experts with extensive knowledge of assessment and tertiary entrance processes in Australia and overseas.

“The review will involve extensive consultation before ACER delivers its full report, including recommendations for the Government to consider, by 31 July 2014.”

Mr Langbroek reassured families that any potential changes to the current system would be phased-in over several years.

“The timing of any changes arising from this review will be carefully considered so that students can plan their senior schooling and tertiary entrance pathways,” he said.

“The Newman Government is committed to providing a quality education experience for Queensland students and this review will ensure our tertiary selection system reflects the post-schooling needs and the opportunities available for everyone.”

[ENDS] 30 July 2013

Media contact: Danita Goodwin 0439 886 652