NEW EDUCATION FOCUS FOR TABLELANDS-JOHNSTONE

Students in the Tablelands-Johnstone area will benefit from a new Rural and Remote Centre of Education Excellence.

Minister for Education and Training Rod Welford said the centre would involve nine local schools and provide a focus for innovative programs.

“Our Government is committed to improving educational and training opportunities for students, educators and schools in rural Queensland,” Mr Welford said.

“Schools to be included in the Tablelands-Johnstone cluster are Tully, Cardwell, Murray River Upper, Kennedy, Lower Tully, Feluga, El Arish and Mission Beach state schools and Tully State High School.

“The Tablelands-Johnstone Centre will focus on delivering the Wishbone project to better engage Indigenous students in learning and improve Indigenous student education outcomes.

“The project aims to develop pride and understanding in Indigenous cultural identity, and build parental and community involvement in their children’s education.

“The Centre of Education Excellence in the Tablelands-Johnstone area is one of nine similar centres being established throughout Queensland.

“The aim is to provide a focus for local principals and teachers to share success stories and co-ordinate professional development.

“They will become a focal point for regional communities to identify needs and drive positive outcomes for students, teachers and schools.”

Mr Welford said the Government recognised there were barriers faced by schools in rural and remote areas of Queensland which required special strategies.

“More than half of all Queensland state schools are in rural and remote areas, with more than 121,000 students enrolled,” he said.

Mr Welford said the Centres of Excellence initiative was part of the Queensland Government’s Blueprint for the Bush, a 10-year plan to build a sustainable, livable and prosperous rural Queensland.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000