Grammar Schools Bill to cut red tape

Legislation introduced to State Parliament today will help cut red tape and modernise laws regulating Queensland’s eight grammar schools.

Education Minister Kate Jones said the legislation governing grammar schools had been reviewed in consultation with each of the state’s eight grammar schools.

“The Grammar Schools Bill 2016 would replace the existing Grammar Schools Act 1975 with new legislation,” Ms Jones said.

“This would add flexibility to the governance structure of grammar school boards of trustees.

“It would also ensure appropriate board composition, modernise the way new board members are appointed and support boards with their succession planning.

“The State Government wants to reduce the amount of red tape boards of trustees are exposed to while ensuring adequate government oversight.”

Queensland’s eight grammar schools, established between 1863 and 1892, include the state’s oldest grammar school at Ipswich as well as schools in Brisbane, Townsville, Rockhampton and Toowoomba.

“Grammar schools have played an important role in the history of education in Queensland,” Ms Jones said.

“However, the new laws would not allow for the establishment of any additional grammar schools in the future.”

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