Tasmania’s Minister for Education Jo Palmer has announced an independent review of the state’s education system is now underway, with the Terms of Reference released on 16 August.
The review is being undertaken to provide advice to the Tasmanian government on evidence-based and impactful reforms that will improve the state’s education system and educational outcomes over the next decade.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said the scope of the review will include the government and non-government school sectors, with a focus on Kindergarten to Year 12.
“Tasmania’s education system has a critical role to play in ensuring Tasmanian children and young people gain the skills they need to lead their best lives and fully contribute to our community and economic future,” Ms Palmer said.
“The review is being led by Vicki Baylis, an independent, experienced and well-respected Australian educator.
“There will be an opportunity for all Tasmanians, including children and young people, families and educators to share their views.”
The review will focus on five themes: defining educational success, strengthening supports and engagement for all learners at all stages of their education, outcomes at the conclusion of the formal years of schooling, support for the teaching workforce and accountability for improved outcomes.
Ms Palmer said the Tasmanian government wants an education system that is ambitious for its children and young people, making sure every child reaches their potential, regardless of background, location or any other factor.
“We want to strengthen shared accountability for improved student outcomes, including in remote and rural areas, so our young Tasmanians can contribute to the state’s productivity by being part of a highly-skilled local workforce,” Ms Palmer said.
“We have delivered significant change in the education system over the past ten years, including extending high schools to years 11 and 12 and changing the law to ensure young people are in education or training.
“Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future we are implementing evidence based structured literacy (including phonics) in all primary schools; investing record amounts into school upgrades and new builds; providing more support for students with a disability, increasing VET courses across all secondary schools and colleges and continuing to grow our skilled education workforce.”
A discussion paper will be released as part of the consultation approach to help guide the conversation, allowing all interested individuals and groups to have input.
The review will be completed, with the report provided to the government by the end of 2024.
More information is available on the Independent Education Review website.