CALLING QUEENSLAND’S BEST AND BRIGHTEST STUDENTS

The state’s best and brightest high school students are being encouraged to apply for places at Queensland’s new Academies for 2008.

Education and Training Minister, Rod Welford, said the first round of applications to attend the Academies in 2008 would be closing on 19 April.

“This is a great opportunity for our best and brightest students to attend one of our three world-class academies – and fast track their studies,” Mr Welford said.

“Students who will be in Year 10 next year are welcome to apply for places at the Academy for Mathematics, Science and Technology at Toowong and the Academy for Creative Industries at Kelvin Grove.

“The Queensland Academy for Health Sciences on the Gold Coast will open for the first time in 2008 and places are available for students in Year 10 and Year 11.

“The Academies offer students many benefits including state-of-the-art facilities, industry experience, the opportunity to fast-track tertiary study and individually mentored learning.”

The Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology at Toowong helps high achieving students develop their skills through leading edge curriculum and links with the University of Queensland.

The Queensland Academy for Creative Industries Academy at Kelvin Grove has been developed in partnership with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and fosters creativity and skills in visual and performing arts, music, film, internet content and design disciplines.

The new $43.54 million Queensland Academy of Health Sciences on the Gold Coast is currently under construction and will open its doors for the first time next year.

In a partnership with Griffith University’s Medical, Dental and Allied Health Faculty the Academy will focus on health and allied health industries. It will offer Year 10 and 11 next year, and become fully operational in 2009 when Year 12 will also be available.

Expressions of interest to enrol at all three Academies for 2008 can be lodged through the Academies website at www.qldacademies.eq.edu.au before April 19.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000.