The National Report to Parliament on Indigenous Education and Training, 2004 tracks progress in Indigenous education and training in 2004 at all levels, from preschool through to higher education.
In 2004, the Indigenous Education Strategic Initiatives Programme provided supplementary funding to more than 200 preschools, schools, vocational and technical education (VTE) organisations and education systems, in both the government and non-government sectors. Education providers in receipt of IESIP funding report against outcomes in eight priority areas.
Four priority areas relate to improving outcomes for Indigenous students – in literacy and numeracy; enrolments; attendance and retention; and in educational outcomes such as the gaining of Year 12 Certificates. Under the heading of Indigenous influence, involvement and presence, progress in the four other priority areas of Indigenous employment; professional development of staff involved in Indigenous education and training; involvement of Indigenous parents and communities in education and training; and culturally inclusive curricula is analysed and discussed.
Interspersed through this report is a series of ‘features’ highlighting the activities of eleven education providers representing all levels of education and a wide range of geographical locations. Their stories give insights into how they are meeting the needs of their communities, what they do best, why they are special, and how they are achieving good outcomes for their students.
In addition, developments in numerous other Australian Government programmes that assist Indigenous students are detailed, together with details of expenditure.