Labor takes critical steps forward for Education sector

Tasmanian Labor
  • First meeting
    of the Education, Science, Research and Antarctic Industry IAC brings key
    education industry representatives together
  • Government
    must do more to support teacher workload and support strong and ongoing
    professional development
  • The Education, Science,
    Research and Antarctic Industry Advisory Council met in Campbell Town today for
    the first time to seek solutions for Tasmania’s education system.

    The Council is made up of a
    cross section of representatives from the University of Tasmania, Beacon
    Foundation, IMAS, The Smith Family, AEU, Disability Reform Council, TASSO, YNOT
    and former principals.

    Shadow Minister for
    Education and Early Years, Josh Willie, said the meeting exposed existing gaps
    in Tasmania’s education system, and provided an opportunity to discuss
    inclusive and long term solutions.

    “The discussion really
    highlighted the need for better resourced pathway planning to employment in
    schools,” Mr Willie said.

    “Given our state’s
    educational attainment and retention are among the worst in the country, it is
    clear that meaningful career planning must start earlier in schools to ensure
    that our children are given the best chance at success.

    “Other key themes of the
    meeting included the need for Government to reduce teacher workload and support
    strong and ongoing professional development. This includes teacher attraction
    and retention strategies and reducing education costs for parents.”

    The IAC will meet regularly to develop policy to address concerns and take advantages of the opportunities present in the education sector.

    Josh Willie MP

    Shadow Minister for Education and Early Years

    /Public Release. View in full here.