16 November 2018: Today, along with Vice Chancellor and President of the University of Canberra, Professor Deep Saini, I was pleased to announce the schools that will participate in the University of Canberra Affiliated Schools Program.
The ACT Government’s $4.5m investment over four years in this program, supports the Future of Education Strategy by further empowering teachers and school leaders to meet the learning needs of all students.
We know that a respected, professional teaching workforce requires high quality initial teacher education that attracts the right kind of people to this field and leads to well-prepared and enthusiastic graduates entering the profession. After the personal factors of students themselves, teachers are the single most significant factor in student achievement.
The Affiliated Schools Program will enhance preservice teacher education through school-based clinics and professional experience placements to ensure graduates are well equipped to enter the workforce. The Program also benefits our existing workforce by supporting collaboration with preservice teachers and university academics as well as sharing research via professional learning, resources and evidence-based programs.
By building better links with the University of Canberra (UC) where many of our teachers gain their initial and post graduate qualifications, we are increasing opportunities for professional learning through research collaboration as well as growing UC as a centre for excellence in teaching. This an exciting initiative and I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this wonderful partnership.
Professor Saini said the program will allow us to realise the vision of authentic, school-based teacher education, teacher professional development and research with well resourced, carefully selected schools.
“A formalised and collaborative partnership such as the UC Affiliated Schools Program focuses on future effectiveness and the relevance of education in a fast-developing Australian society.
It has been informed by international best practice, successful collaborative programs in the past, and the contributions of a cohesive team within the University and its Faculty of Education; and from UC Lake Ginninderra and UC Kaleen High School.”
Initially 25 public schools will be involved in the Program with more to be included in the second and third phase.
Statement ends
Media contact/s:
ACT Legislative Assembly
Yvette Berry MLA
Deputy Chief Minister
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Development
Minister for Housing and Suburban Development
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence
Minister for Sport and Recreation
Minister for Women
Member for Ginninderra
Megan Cursley T (02) 6207 1653 M 0435 960 505 megan.cursley@act.gov.au