Independent review to examine disability schooling

Published Thursday, 02 June, 2016 at 01:22 PM

Minister for Education and Minister for Tourism and Major Events
The Honourable Kate Jones

Education Minister Kate Jones today announced a wide-ranging review of Queensland’s education policy for students with disability.

Ms Jones told the Queensland Association of Special Education Leaders (QASEL) conference the department would call for applicants to lead an independent review into education for students with disability.

“We want to ensure we offer all students the highest quality, evidence-based learning and teaching practices to help make their education experience a success,” she said.

“To make this happen, I have now approved an independent review into disability policy in Queensland.

“This review will identify what we are doing well and areas in which the department can better support special education teachers.

“It will involve a review of the policies and processes we have in place and seek the views of students with disability, their families and peers and members of our school communities.

“All of these voices will contribute to change the way we work to deliver on our promise to provide education on the same basis for all children in Queensland.”

Ms Jones said state schools educated more than 31,000 students with disability.

“Our teachers are committed to providing a quality education to all students, including those with disabilities,” she said.

“Our teachers deserve to be supported in this vital role and that’s why this year we’ve invested $930 million for students with disability.

“We have also opened a new Autism Hub to support teachers and parents with strategies to help students with autism.

“However, we want to do better to ensure there is confidence and excellence in our policies and processes to provide the highest quality education for all students with disability enrolled in Queensland state schools.”

Media: Matt Jutsum 0408 998 940