New program to inspire more Townsville students to attend university

A Thuringowa State High School and James Cook University partnership will encourage more Townsville high school students to aspire to university.

Education Minister Kate Jones today announced $500,000 for Thuringowa State High School to lead the university-school partnership in North Queensland.

“This partnership will bring new opportunities to the students of Thuringowa State High School,” Ms Jones said.

“Further education, whether it be university or trade training, opens more doors for students.

“We want every student to reach their full potential and this project will inspire students to aim high.”

Ms Jones said JCU and Thuringowa SHS would work together to develop strategies to boost school and community attitudes to university education.

“JCU has world-renowned specialist faculties in medicine and tropical science which means there is a wealth of knowledge for Thuringowa State High students to potentially tap into,” she said.

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the program would better support students who would not otherwise go to university.

“For example, JCU lecturers might visit Thuringowa State High classrooms and students will in turn visit JCU to experience a university lecture,” Mr Harper said.

“The school will also investigate the possibility of offering a flexible curriculum with innovative courses aligned to JCU.”

Thuringowa State High School Principal Grant Dale said the school would investigate a range of possibilities in partnership with JCU.

“We are working with JCU to provide pathways to both academic and employment opportunities, and working on some direct links with JCU so they become part of everyday schooling,” Mr Dale said.

“This is not just for our school, we will be looking for programs that can work in all schools. I hope we can be a lighthouse for other schools to be guided by.”

James Cook University Vice Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding said her institution was committed to developing closer links with the region’s schools in line with its strategic commitment to improving life in the tropics.

“We’re delighted to have this opportunity to work more closely with Thuringowa State High School and North Queensland’s state schools in exploring opportunities to develop programs that will create a brighter future for our region’s young people,” she said.

Media contact: Minister Jones’ Office 3719 7530