Queensland Minister supports new national history curriculum

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford has thrown his support behind a proposal for a new national history curriculum in schools.

“It is essential that students learn about the major historical events that have shaped Australia’s social and political landscape,” Mr Welford said.

“Students should also know about the history of the great global powers of the world in order to understand Australia’s place in the global context.

“This includes our role in past defining historical events, such as world wars, the formation of the United Nations and elements of American and European history that have shaped Australia.

“I welcome the new proposal and the positive effects it will have on student learning.”

Mr Welford said he expected the new national history and geography curricula would effectively supersede the current Studies of Society and Environment (SOSE) curriculum.

“Much of the current Studies of Society and Environment curriculum could be incorporated into the new history and geography curricula,” he said.

“Our Government supports the development of a national curriculum through a cooperative approach with the National Curriculum Board chaired by Professor Barry McGaw.

“The Board is responsible for developing an Australian national curriculum for all students from Kindergarten, or Prep as it is in Queensland, to Year 12, starting with English, mathematics, the sciences and history.

“The move to a national curriculum provides an opportunity to unclutter the curriculum, particularly in Years 1-10.

“Through the Queensland Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting (QCAR) Framework, Queensland is already well on the path to ensuring students have the basic building blocks they need in their education to succeed in the 21^st century.

“The Essential Learnings ensure there is greater consistency in what is taught in classrooms across the state and that teachers concentrate on the ‘essentials’.

“We are focused on delivering a world-class education and training system for all Queenslanders.

“Together with our focus on early childhood education and increasing the qualifications of Queenslanders, this national curriculum will deliver an even better education for our children.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000 or 0419 734 985