Funding boost to help Year 12 students take the next step

The Palaszczuk Government will provide around $750,000 in additional funding to two Bundaberg state high schools to support year 12 graduates get into further education, training or employment, Education Minister Grace Grace announced today.

Ms Grace, who visited Bundaberg State High School today, said the additional funding was part of a four-year, $42 million funding commitment.

“We want every Year 12 student to be able to make the transition from high school to further education, training or work. However, some students need extra support to achieve this transition and its these students who will benefit from this additional funding,” Ms Grace said.

“Thanks to $420,000 in funding over four years from the Palaszczuk Government, Bundaberg State High will be one of four schools across Queensland that will pilot the Link & Launch program.

“The program will be available to young people across all Bundaberg high schools and will help them navigate their post-school options and to make a successful transition to study, training or work.

“It is estimated that there will be up to 50 young people who will be supported by Link & Launch in the Bundaberg area in Term 4, 2019.”

Link & Launch will commence at 10 other sites in 2020 and will be available in 30 locations across Queensland by 2022.

Ms Grace said Bundaberg North State High would receive $110,000 for resourcing, professional development and other support to enable a successful delivery of the FlexiSpace initiative.

“FlexiSpace is about engaging disengaged young people with education, employment or training,” she said.

“In addition, a classroom within the school will be refurbished to provide an innovative and contemporary learning space for young people at a cost of $200,000,” Ms Grace said.

Ms Grace said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to giving young people a great start.

“The 2019-20 State Budget included a record $13.8 billion for education,” she said.

“I’m proud that my department is able to provide additional funding to support programs like Link & Launch and FlexiSpace so those students who need that little bit of extra support to make the transition to post-high school life can get it.”

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Media contact: Scott Chandler - 0439 578 472