LITERACY BOOST FOR REGIONAL STATE SCHOOLS

The State Government’s blueprint to boost literacy levels in state schools took another step forward today with the appointment of 15 new Regional Literacy Managers.

Addressing the new Managers at a Literacy Workshop in Brisbane this morning, Minister for Education and Training, Rod Welford, said the appointments were part of the Government’s multi-million dollar literacy framework.

“It is essential we give every student the best chance to master literacy and numeracy so they can meet the challenges of 21st century life,” Mr Welford said.

“Our commitment to this is evidenced in the $173.1 million we are providing in this Budget to support literacy and numeracy initiatives.

“Earlier this year, I launched a comprehensive new blueprint to boost student literacy skills in Queensland state schools. The ‘Literacy-the Key to Learning: Framework for Action 2006-2008’ provides a strategy to develop higher literacy standards.

“It focuses on four key elements – teacher professional development, literacy in the curriculum, student learning and leadership

“The appointment of the 15 new Regional Literacy Managers is an important part of professional development for our teachers.

“They will provide professional development for all Queensland teachers and teacher aides on how to support children experiencing difficulties with reading.

The Literacy Managers have been appointed to all of the state’s education districts - Darling Downs, Far North Queensland, Fitzroy-Central West, Greater Brisbane, Mackay-Whitsunday, Moreton, North Queensland, SouthCoast, SunshineCoast and Wide-Bay Burnett.

Mr Welford said professional development for all state school teachers was one of the keys to raising literacy standards.

“For the first time we will have a comprehensive system where every teacher in every classroom will be specifically and rigorously trained to teach literacy,” he said.

“We are providing literacy support where it is needed most - at the grass-roots level - and this will help achieve greater consistency in literacy results across geographical regions.”

Media contact: Greg Milne on 32371000 or 0417 791 336