Articles

Year 1 phonics tests will only work if how phonics is taught is changed The federal government’s plan to introduce literacy tests for all Australian pupils in Year 1 will only improve children’s reading skills if accompanied by a more systematic approach to the use of phonics, according to Adelaide educator Jenny Allen. 

School drop–outs cost the community A report by Mitchell Institute at Victoria University finds large numbers of young Australians are not succeeding in education and training, and it’s costing taxpayers billions of dollars each year.

Turning SA schools into community centres The SA government aims to transform its schools into hubs that enhance community engagement through sharing its facilities for sport, health services, community college, cultural events and much more.

Reading leaders encouraging kids to read Throughout Australia there are teachers, librarians and support staff encouraging students to read more and enjoy reading. Scholastic and APPA have established the Scholastic Reading Leader award to recognise them.

AHISA National Chair, Karen Spiller receives Australian honours award The Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia's (AHISA) National Chair, Karen Spiller, received the award of a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) announced in the Queen’s birthday honours list this year.

Fairness and integrity stats in NSW HSC The NSW Education Standards Authority has released the 2016 data for four programs that support the fairness and integrity of the NSW Higher School Certificate.

General capabilities to help with learning and life The SA Education Department has produced a ‘snapshot’ guide for parents and caregivers to summarise the seven general capabilities students learn throughout their schooling, designed specifically to focus on the jobs of the future.

Support for students with Specific Learning Difficulties Swinburne University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Specific Learning Difficulties Association Victoria to assist and support the experience of students who live with specific learning difficulties.

New state high schools in inner-city Brisbane Two new schools will be built in inner-city Brisbane, with plans for new state high schools in other growth areas including Mt Low in Townsville, North Lakes/Mango Hill north of Brisbane, Calliope near Gladstone and Yarrabilba in South Logan.

Proposed changes to home schooling regulations in Victoria The Victorian state government has released proposed changes to home schooling regulations in Victoria. Families seeking to become registered for home schooling will now need to provide the VRQA with a learning plan.

Students choose careers earlier than previously thought Targeted higher-education recruitment that reflects school students’ aspirations for particular careers is likely to be more successful in attracting students than looking to raise the aspirations of students in disadvantaged groups.

AEU: COAG an opportunity to fight funding cuts The Australian Education Union has released a statement urging Premiers from across the country to use the Council of Australian Governments meeting as an opportunity to voice their opinions on the school funding proposal.