Published Wednesday, 29 November, 2006 at 12:08 PM
Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Peter Beattie
PREMIER COMMITTED TO TEACHING AUSTRALIAN HISTORY IN SCHOOLS
Premier Peter Beattie has strongly supported teaching Australian history in Queensland schools and said it will remain a significant part of the school curriculum.
“History is compulsory for Queensland students as part of the subject called Studies of Society and Environment,” Mr Beattie told State Parliament today.
“Because Australian history is a core part of Years 1–10 Studies of Society and Environment syllabus Queensland children finish their schooling well versed in our nation’s history.
“History is not about the rote learning of a set of dates, names and places. It’s about knowing how this country came about,” Mr Beattie said.
“That is why I am such a passionate supporter of teaching Australian history in Queensland schools.
“During their school life every Queensland student has a chance to learn about the major events, personalities and issues that have shaped our nation.
“Our history is important. The more young people know of our history, the more they will value and defend democracy and our deeply held respect for the rule of law.
“It is also important they know about the efforts and sacrifices of the amazing men and women who built the foundations of the prosperous, caring and innovative country we have become.
“Queensland schools teach a combination of traditional topics such as the early explorers, colonial Australia, Federation and the ANZAC experience in addition to more contemporary topics such as the Vietnam War and the civil rights and environmental movements.
“In time today’s students will leave school and take their turn to shape our nation’s future. A solid understanding of our rich and diverse history – both its triumphs and failures - will underpin their efforts.”
Media inquiries: 3224 4500
29 November 2006
“History is compulsory for Queensland students as part of the subject called Studies of Society and Environment,” Mr Beattie told State Parliament today.
“Because Australian history is a core part of Years 1–10 Studies of Society and Environment syllabus Queensland children finish their schooling well versed in our nation’s history.
“History is not about the rote learning of a set of dates, names and places. It’s about knowing how this country came about,” Mr Beattie said.
“That is why I am such a passionate supporter of teaching Australian history in Queensland schools.
“During their school life every Queensland student has a chance to learn about the major events, personalities and issues that have shaped our nation.
“Our history is important. The more young people know of our history, the more they will value and defend democracy and our deeply held respect for the rule of law.
“It is also important they know about the efforts and sacrifices of the amazing men and women who built the foundations of the prosperous, caring and innovative country we have become.
“Queensland schools teach a combination of traditional topics such as the early explorers, colonial Australia, Federation and the ANZAC experience in addition to more contemporary topics such as the Vietnam War and the civil rights and environmental movements.
“In time today’s students will leave school and take their turn to shape our nation’s future. A solid understanding of our rich and diverse history – both its triumphs and failures - will underpin their efforts.”
Media inquiries: 3224 4500
29 November 2006