Premier announces study into JCU Townsville high school

 

Premier Campbell Newman has delivered another 100-day election commitment, announcing funding for a study to look at the feasibility of co-locating a specialist secondary school at James Cook University in Townsville.

The Premier and Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek made the $500,000 funding announcement in Townsville today after the Newman Government’s first community cabinet sitting.

Mr Newman said the commitment was part of his government’s education plan to take Queensland students forward by linking universities and secondary schools.

“This is another commitment that this LNP Government has delivered as part of our First 100 Days Action Plan,” Mr Newman said.

“We are providing real opportunities for Queensland school children to excel and make the most of their education.

“Townsville is a growing regional city and JCU is ideally placed as a regional university with a strong science and technology focus, which we believe are the foundations of future economic success.”

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek said Marsden Jacob Associates (MJA) had been chosen through a tender process to carry out a feasibility study and build a business case for the proposed school.

“Marsden Jacob will investigate whether the Queensland Academies model already in place in the State’s southeast is appropriate for North Queensland, and will look at forecast growth and future school needs in the Townsville area,” Mr Langbroek said.

“They will also identify specialist educational opportunities and look at the infrastructure required to improve the existing JCU campus.

“Local schools and parents will also be able to have their say through community consultation.”

Minister Langbroek said the James Cook High School Reference Group would be established to provide advice and oversee the feasibility and business case development.

“The reference group will include representatives from the Department of Education, Training and Employment, James Cook University, Townsville City Council, as well as the Queensland Council of Parents and Citizens Associations and the Isolated Children’s Parents Association.”

Mr Langbroek said Marsden Jacob Associates would deliver a final report and business case in October this year.

[Ends] 2 July 2012
Media Contact:
Premier’s Office (07) 3224 4500 Minister’s Office: Danita Goodwin 0439 886 652