STEM specialists and IT support for state schools

The Palaszczuk Government is driving a renewed focus on science, technology, mathematics and engineering making STEM specialists and IT support officers available to all state schools.

Education Minister Kate Jones said from 2018 STEM champions would be appointed to primary schools to lift student participation in science and maths.

“We want to give Queensland students more opportunities to study science, technology, engineering and maths – including robotics and coding – to prepare them for the challenges and jobs of tomorrow,” Ms Jones said.

“We are investing $81 million over four years to employ STEM specialists in primary schools throughout the state.

“STEM champions will work closely with more than 100 schools in the first year of the four-year program to help them develop and implement their STEM strategies.

“Starting from next year, schools will be able to source the expertise they need including from secondary schools, universities or industry.”

Ms Jones said STEM champions would help boost the number of students participating in STEM subjects in high school.

“The focus on STEM-related skills, including coding and robotics, is critical to education,” shesaid.

“We are also investing $140 million over four years to fund dedicated information technology support officers in our state schools for the first time.

“We need to ensure STEM education is supported with the appropriate technical staff.”

Ms Jones said the investment would provide an extra full-time equivalent IT support staff member for every 1,000 students across all Queensland state schools.

“This is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s record $9.8 billion education budget,” she said.

“We are employing more teachers, specialist teachers, teacher aides and additional guidance officers to support students and provide a quality education.

“We want to ensure every student is engaged in learning and reaching their full potential.”

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