Media Release

The key role played by teachers in preparing young Australians for future life and employment has been recognised, with the announcement today of $77.7 million over three years in additional funding to strengthen the skills of the teaching profession, by the Minister for Education Training and Youth Affairs, Dr David Kemp.

Consistent with the Coalition’s commitment at the last election, the funding, to be provided to the Quality Teacher Programme over the next three years, will update and improve teachers’ skills and help lift the status of the teaching profession in both government and non-government schools.

"The Government recognises the vital role teachers play in shaping Australian society and it believes that the ongoing professional development of teachers is of critical importance," said Dr Kemp.

"Seventy per cent of the teaching service completed its formal training ten or more years ago. As a result there is a need for increased opportunities for professional renewal to help equip teachers with the skills to respond to the new challenges and priorities in the school sector."

Funding will support the provision of targeted professional development programmes by government and non-government education authorities and other organisations. A small proportion of the funds will also be retained to support strategic national projects.

The Government will be consulting with key stakeholders in the States and Territories about the Programme’s implementation later this year. Programme activities will commence at the beginning of 2000.

"The Quality Teacher Programme will focus on the renewal of teacher skills and understanding in literacy, numeracy, mathematics, science, information technology and vocational education in schools. It will target teachers who have completed formal training ten or more years ago, casual teachers and teachers who are re-entering the teaching profession," said Dr Kemp.

• Fact Sheet

Media contact: Samantha Herron 0412 639 754 or 02 6277 7460

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