Teachers for the 21st Century: making the difference

Details of the Australian Government Quality Teacher Initiative are outlined in this report.  The initiative will provide opportunities for teachers to expand their skills and knowledge, particularly within a whole school approach to improving educational outcomes for students. This report provides an overview of Commonwealth activities which supports teachers improving their skills, understandings and practice in key learning areas. It identifies areas for future research and addresses the development needs of principals and future school leaders.

Highly effective schools and improved student outcomes are key objectives of the Commonwealth Government.  Education of the highest quality is the foundation for the future.  This requires teachers of the highest quality.  Research both in Australia and overseas confirms that a highly skilled and professional teaching force makes a difference.  As part of the Australian Government Quality Teacher Initiative, Teachers for the 21st Century will improve teacher quality and increase the number of highly effective Australian schools in order to maximise student learning outcomes.  It will do so by: lifting the quality of teaching through targeted professional development and enhancing professional standards; developing the skills of school leaders; supporting quality school management; and recognising and rewarding quality schools, school leaders and teachers. 

Teachers for the 21st Century will provide funding through four key elements: quality teachers; quality leaders; quality school management; and recognition of quality.  It will be implemented over the next three years through a range of targeted initiatives which support each of the four key elements.