SOUTH AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF STATE SCHOOL ORGANISATIONS
Supporting schools, governing councils and state education through training, advice and advocacy
SAASSO Education Update Archive
2011 - Term 1 & 2
Listed below you can find information and links from previous editions of Education Update.
Articles are listed in chronological order.
If you can't find the article you're looking for, email info@saasso.asn.au
7 Jul 2011
Parent Dispute Review
An escalation in violent incidents has prompted Education Minister Jay Weatherill to ask the department to investigate ways of improving dispute resolution procedures for parents.
A structured dispute process for parents is desperately needed - one way to improve disputes with the education department, would be to look outside the department for input.
In its 2010 Election Submission, SAASSO asked the State Government to:
· work with SAASSO, to develop a process to resolve parent disputes with schools.
· Support the right of parents to be represented by their parent association in disputes.
The Term 4, 2010 edition of School Post, included a special feature on the ‘2010 OECD Education Report Card’ - which focussed on the role and rights of parents around the world. The report revealed:
· 27 out of 30 countries have regulations which provide parents with formal processes for filing complaints regarding public schools.
· Around two thirds of OECD countries have an ombudsman or agency to receive complaints about public schools.
· In almost all other OECD countries, parents can appeal decisions made by the school.
For more information:
6 Jul 2011
6 Jul 2011
Pollies Ignore Declining Student Results
Ben Jensen, director of the school education program at the Grattan Institute, paints a grim portrait of two worrying trends in Australian schools in The Australian this week.
The first trend - documented in SAASSO’s School Post Term 1 2011 PISA article - is the weak performance of Australian students in the 2009 PISA Survey.
Survey findings expose Australia as the only high performance country to show a decline in results.
Mr Jensen’s second concern is the government’s utter lack of response in the six months since their release.
Literacy and numeracy form the vital foundation of our children’s education.
SAASSO has campaigned for improvements to literacy and numeracy in state schools in both Federal and State 2010 Election Submissions; knowing that achievement in literacy and numeracy is the most influential factor in a student’s completion of high school.
29 Jun 2011
Teacher Pay Plan May Spark Unrest
The threat of a divided school body and less staff collaboration is a likely repercussion of the Gillard Government's pay bonuses for one tenth of Australian teachers, says Norm Hart.
Mr Hart, president of the Australian Primary Principals Association (APPA), says the bonus will not improve teacher performance and all teachers should be acknowledged and rewarded with a pay rise instead.
In May the Gillard Government announced it will pay bonuses of up to $8000 to 25,000 Australian teachers, based on their performance.
Beginning in 2013, the criteria for judging teacher performance will include evidence of lesson observations, student performance data (i.e. NAPLAN results) and parental feedback.
At last week’s APPA conference principals aired concerns that the program will be difficult to administer and may elevate the importance of NAPLAN results.
SAASSO has been calling for Performance Pay since 2007. In our 2010 Federal Election Submission we recommended either Knowledge or Certification-Based Pay Models, and opposed a Merit Pay or “bonus” system, stating that the latter may cause more harm than good.
In the 2009 Term 4 School Post, SAASSO also endorsed the Performance Pay model proposed by MCEETYA.
For more information:
29 Jun 2011
Whyalla ‘Fight Club’ Students Suspended
An urgent report has been ordered into what SA Education Minister Jay Weatherill describes as a "fight club" at a Whyalla school.
Twenty-four Year nine and ten Stuart High School students have been suspended upon a parent’s discovery of mobile phone footage of the fighting.
The students - who fought in lunch breaks and wore boxing gloves - would only stop fighting when someone began bleeding.
The school will offer army cadet training for its students in a bid to help them burn their energy in a safer environment.
For more information:
29 Jun 2011
Poverty Sees Kids Suffer In Science
An international study shows that poor students start school behind their peers and are given less opportunity to catch up.
The OECD study shows disadvantaged students in Australia spend about 30 minutes less per week studying science than wealthier students.
The report identifies that the key disparity is the amount of time spent learning in the classroom. Disadvantaged students are, on average, given less opportunity to learn at school than more advantaged students.
"The evidence in PISA suggests that investing into learning time is even more important for disadvantaged students," the report says.
ACARA chairman Barry McGaw says many schools in disadvantaged areas do not offer the most challenging courses even if the students have the ability, so low expectations also explain - and contribute to - poor performance.
For more information:
29 Jun 2011
Government Considers Schooling Chaplains
School chaplains could soon be forced to attain formal training qualifications if the Federal Government is convinced there is a need.
Education Minister Peter Garrett says he will consider the option upon completion of a review of the National School Chaplaincy Program.
Mr Garrett says he expects anyone working in a school environment to “have a level of appropriate training and qualifications."
The chaplaincy program currently funds 2681 schools across Australia where chaplains or pastoral care workers provide students with "general advice, comfort and support".
In the 2011 Term 2 School Post SAASSO analysed a Federal discussion paper proposing that the government require chaplains or pastoral care workers to have a minimum Certificate IV (Associate Diploma) in Youth Work, or similar.
It is alleged some chaplains have been offering formal counselling to students without being qualified to, while others have been accused of behaving inappropriately with students.
Last year Prime Minister Julia Gillard pledged a further $222 million to continue the program until 2014.
For more information:
29 Jun 2011
A Quarter Of Sex Attack Victims Aged 10-14
More than a quarter of all reported victims of sexual assault last year were aged between 10 and 14, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
The ABS report, Recorded Crime, summarises national crime statistics based on the victims who reported crimes to police last year.
85% of all victims of sexual assault and kidnapping crimes in 2010 were female. Females are also more likely to be abducted than males.
Teenage males aged 15 to 19 are five times more likely to be victims of robbery than the national average.
29 Jun 2011
Murdoch Unveils Education Revolution
Rupert Murdoch, chairman and CEO of News Corporation, revealed his own vision for a digital education revolution yesterday, at a conference in London.
Mr Murdoch says News Corporation will change how children are taught by becoming one of the world's largest providers of educational material in the next five years.
Schools need to begin to use new technologies such as tablet computers as part of a fundamental reform of teaching, Mr Murdoch says.
The media mogul says he will be "thrilled" if in five years, 10% of News Corporation’s business is education based.
For more information:
29 Jun 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 76
22 Jun 2011
Even Tots Need To Be Cyber-Savvy
A major investigation of online safety has found that cyber education for children should start in preschool.
The High-Wire Act Report makes dozens of recommendations to Parliament on how to educate children and teenagers on remaining safe in the increasingly complex online environment.
The report recommends:
· Cyber-safe practices should be introduced at home at a young age.
· Early Childhood Minister Peter Garrett consider providing cyber-safety lessons in pre-schools and kindergartens.
· The creation of a cyber-safety focussed student mentoring program in schools.
While the report authors deem it logical for schools to introduce cyber-safety at the same time they introduce computers, they also believe that by then it is “too late”, as children will have already developed habits.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
$5m Scheme A Boost For Rural Schools
A national remote teacher service, The ‘Teach Remote’ program, is being developed. The $5m scheme will focus on attracting and retaining high-quality teachers in the remote areas of Australia.
The program will focus on recruiting, training, supporting and rewarding teachers working in remote communities, including an induction program for new teachers, an online course in teaching English as a second language and scholarships for high performing teachers.
Education Minister Peter Garrett says the program is vital, recognising that “teachers in remote schools usually have a much shorter length of service than teachers in urban and regional schools”.
‘Teach Remote’ will be managed by the National Alliance for Remote Indigenous Schools (NARIS), who currently work with nearly 30,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
Teaching Rules Change Under SA Shake-up
Changes to education policy will see permanent jobs created for teachers currently on contracts, and principals having more say on recruitment.
The SA Government says agreement has been struck with the education and principals' unions.
SA Education Minister Jay Weatherill has again said that a policy restricting teachers from working at the same school for more than 10 years is to be abolished.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
Classrooms Way Too Cool For School
Over 150 children in the state's north cannot attend school after power outages leave their classrooms too cold.
A recent cold snap in the area has seen temperatures plummet as low as -3C. Coupled with the cold weather, frequent power outages leave the school’s classrooms without both light and heating.
Ernabella school principal Lisa Salomon says the recurrent power outages are a severe problem as not all of her students have shoes, socks or jumpers. Ms Salomon says, despite the best efforts of the staff, “we can't deliver a learning program without electricity."
Energy Minister Michael O'Brien says the State Government will take "all necessary steps" to assist with the restoration of electricity supply at Ernabella, in the APY Lands.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
Students Better With No Food Additives
Students have been calmer, well-rested, and have longer attention spans as a result of an additive-free trial at an Adelaide Hills school.
Approximately 75 students from The Hills Christian Community School took part in a two-week trial run by the Food Intolerance Network of SA. Parents were encouraged to cut additives from their children’s diet.
The students were reported to be less disruptive and grumpy, and several friendship issues were resolved.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
Family First MP Takes On Facebook
SA Family First MLC Dennis Hood is composing legislation to force Facebook to give parents a bigger role in the online activities of their children.
Mr Hood is drafting a bill which would allow parents to be better informed and to have more control over the information their children post on the social networking site.
His action was prompted by concerns from a mother who took issue with material posted on Facebook by her child. Facebook officials refused to discuss the issue with the mother and would only speak to the holder of the account; her 13-year-old child.
For more information:
22 Jun 2011
Kids Blighted By Alcohol Damage
According to a professor of pediatrics and child health, thousands of Australian children are suffering from undiagnosed alcohol-related birth defects.
Professor Elizabeth Elliott says undiagnosed sufferers of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FASD) can be considered "difficult" or "slow" and are failing to receive appropriate treatment and education.
Sue Miers - chairwoman of the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders - says that children with FASD often have sensory disorders and are “easily overwhelmed in high sensory environments like classrooms”.
Ms Miers adds that these children require extra support, as many of them do not complete school, become involved in the juvenile justice system, develop mental health issues or drug or alcohol problems.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Schools Fibre Connection Quietly Axed
This week it was revealed that the Gillard government has quietly abandoned the $100 million Fibre Connection to Schools initiative. The initiative was established to complement Labor's computers in schools initiative; both part of Labor's 2007 Digital Education Revolution election pledge.
The high-speed connection was meant to cover the schools outside the reach of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
A 2010 department survey shows that only 6147 out of 9693 schools surveyed has a fibre connection.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
SA State Budget 2011
SA’s new Treasurer Jack Snelling handed down the 2011-12 State Budget this week. The $130 million increase includes:
· $41.3 million for disadvantaged schools; including initiatives to keep vulnerable students in class, additional learning programs suited to individual students' needs, and to attract teachers and principals to low socio-economic schools.
· $19 million for at-risk families who will benefit from support programs to reconnect children taken into state care with their families.
· $16.6 million over the next five years to help schools manage the burden of rising electricity costs.
· $14.4 million to relocate standalone preschools to new facilities at existing primary schools.
· $1.2 million on the installation of eight safety cameras at school crossings over the next four years.
The Treasurer’s motives for relocating preschools are to ease children through the transition from preschool to primary school, making it easier for parents and streamline children's learning plans for the whole of their early years.
SA Primary Principals Association president Steve Portlock raised concerns about the “very lean budget”, noting that the Budget has not addressed the drop in discretionary funds for primary schools this year.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Schools Fibre Connection Quietly Axed
This week it was revealed that the Gillard government has quietly abandoned the $100 million Fibre Connection to Schools initiative. The initiative was established to complement Labor's computers in schools initiative; both part of Labor's 2007 Digital Education Revolution election pledge.
The high-speed connection was meant to cover the schools outside the reach of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
A 2010 department survey shows that only 6147 out of 9693 schools surveyed has a fibre connection.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Push To Oust Climate Science From Schools
School Education Minister Peter Garrett has confirmed the Gillard government will not ban the teaching of climate science in the classroom.
In the wake of a British movement for the subject to be withdrawn from their national curriculum, Mr Garrett was asked if climate change would be taught under the new national curriculum.
In England and Wales a government adviser is urging that the subject of climate change be cut from the national curriculum so educators can return to teaching the basics of science in schools.
Mr Garrett clarified that climate change is not taught as a curriculum subject in its own right in Australian schools, but can be incorporated into science and geography classes.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Magill School Library Delay A Long Story
The Messenger reported yesterday that Magill Primary School had been without a library for six months while waiting for their Building the Education Revolution (BER) project to be completed.
Construction of the two-storey library and classroom building began in September 2009 and was supposed to be finished by last December.
In the last six months students have had to make do with occasional bus trips to the Burnside Library at Tusmore.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Children Taking ‘Energy’ Drinks Before Sport
Children are confusing energy drinks such as Red Bull and Monster with sports drinks (i.e. Gatorade) and drinking them before playing sport to enhance their performance, says UniSA Nutritional Physiology Research Centre director Dr. Jon Buckley.
Dr. Buckley says the use of the term ‘energy’ confuses people - especially children - into “thinking it's something you need to have energy”.
Last year the Education Department issued a fact sheet to schools and parents about the dangers of such drinks. Banned from school canteens and vending machines, energy drinks have also been linked to rising obesity levels. The drinks can contain up to 270 calories per serve; dangerously unhealthy levels for children.
Sports drinks contain electrolytes to replace the potassium and sodium that is lost via sweat, but water is recognised as the best way to rehydrate.
In February, US doctors warned of health risks from energy drinks, advising that they should be regulated like alcohol and tobacco.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
Fewer Indigenous Children Taking Tests
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Reform Council has expressed concerns about the number of indigenous children not sitting literacy and numeracy tests.
As NAPLAN test results are fed into the My School website for evaluation of schools, concerns are being raised that some teachers ask poorly performing students to stay home in order to boost their school's scores.
COAG Executive Councillor Mary Ann O’Loughlin has asked test administrator, the ACARA, to provide better breakdowns of NAPLAN absences in future, showing whether students are sick, genuinely exempt or have potentially been asked to stay home.
For more information:
15 Jun 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 74
15 Jun 2011
Report Highlights Chaotic Classroom Age Gap
A new study confirms that a large number of Australian children are being held back from starting school on time.
Report author Dr. Ben Edwards found that there could be up to a two-year age difference between children in the same class.
Kathy Walker, a consultant in parenting and education, is calling for a national starting age. Currently, the school age of entry is different in almost every state.
Parents who delay school entry often do so in the belief it gives their children a better chance at coping at school.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
The Challenges Of Education Reform
We may be bridging the education gap, but it’s in a downward direction says John Hattie, Director of the University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Education.
Yesterday in The Australian, Mr Hattie highlighted two fundamental issues in Australian education - the purpose of schooling and the quality of teaching.
Mr Hattie also examines the urgent need for more resources, further discussion about how to assist teachers with regular feedback, and the creation of suitable student targets for both their individual achievement and the expectations of the curriculum.
In the article Mr Hattie goes so far as to suggest that teachers spend less time in front of their students, and more time revising and improving their impact.
This concept is not without precedent; most teachers from countries ranked in the international top 10 for student achievement spend 600 hours a year in front of students. Australian teachers currently spend about 1100 hours a year doing the same.
Mr Hattie proposes that Australian teachers follow the lead of these international teachers: using the rest of their time to work together to plan, critique, and enhance their teaching.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
Education Chiefs Blasted For Health, PE Cuts
The Education Department has come under fire for failing to employ a health and PE curriculum manager this year.
The position, filled every year since 2000, was considered unnecessary by the department, deciding that no further curriculum development is required for these subjects.
Experts say the position is needed because the area is so vital to ensuring children's wellbeing.
Opposition education spokesman David Pisoni raised concerns about the move, citing links between rising obesity levels with less physical activity in schools.
The Education Department states that Health and PE are included in the third phase of the Australian Curriculum. All three phases have commenced, with phase three scheduled for completion by 2013.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
Technology Narrows Rich-Poor Gap
US neuroscientist Dr David Eagleman says technology is closing the gap between rich and poor schools, with educational software "hitting all of the senses".
Giving students a deeper, more meaningful and memorable experience, Dr Eagleman believes that computers and other digital devices can make up for a lack of access to traditional resources, such as text books.
Computer games and other educational programs are effective because they provide a multi-sensory experience in a dynamic environment - something he deems to be lacking in traditional classrooms.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
No Checks On $165m Given To Private Schools
Private schools receive approximately $165 million a year under a federal program for disadvantaged students without any oversight of how it is spent or if it is effective.
The federal Education Department will provide about $660m over four years to non-government schools to help disadvantaged and disabled students, targeting literacy and numeracy schools.
The only accountability required is for school authorities to lodge an electronic financial accountability certificate by a qualified accountant, declaring the money has been disbursed for the stated purpose.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
Parents Paying Fees For Class Laptop Use
Despite the federal government providing up to $2500 for a computer, support and maintenance, it was revealed this week that schools are allowed to charge parents extra fees for computers.
The National Secondary School Computer Fund initiative stems from the 2007 election pledge to provide one for every student in Years 9 to 12.
The Federal Education Department divulged that rules governing charging parents co-payments for computers were quietly changed in late 2010.
Coalition frontbencher Brett Mason says that it had been assumed that parents would not have to cover extra costs; describing the program as the “gift that keeps on taking”.
In 2008 SAASSO warned of potential on-going cost blowouts, with predictions that operating costs could exceed funding allowance.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
Schools Anxious To STEM The Flow
The number of SA high school students enrolling in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), subjects is dropping, with students finding them “too hard and boring”.
A 2010 Technology Industry Association (TIA) survey finds that fewer students are studying Year 12 Maths than those in previous years. Acting CEO of TIA Jayne Osborne warns that this trend will result in “a shrinking technology skilled workforce”.
One of 15 initiatives seeking to address skill shortages in the defence industry is The Advanced Technology Industry School Pathways Program. The program aims to:
· Increase the number of students studying STEM subjects.
· Prepare students for careers in defence.
· Increase the number of young people into career pathways via apprenticeships, VET and university studies.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
Departments Fail To Stand Up For Schools
In six months the federal government's review of school funding is due to report, and the states running the nation's biggest school systems are yet to contribute to the debate.
DECS will not be presenting a submission until August, after the Gonski review releases a second issues paper and some commissioned research.
Schools Minister Peter Garrett describes the chance to contribute as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for anyone with an interest in education funding.
For more information:
8 Jun 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 73
1 Jun 2011
Dyslexia Diagnosed Too Late In Students
Adolescent psychologist Dr Darryl Cross says dyslexic kids are slipping through the cracks, with many students not being diagnosed with the learning difficulty until their last years of schooling.
Dr. Cross insists that extra funding for support staff and further training for teachers is needed for greater detection of the warning signs, which can include disruptive behaviour in class.
When dyslexia is diagnosed in early childhood, children can be provided with specialised learning techniques to overcome their difficulties.
This year SA schools will receive $10,383 million in government funding to support students with learning difficulties like dyslexia.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
Research Into Dyscalculia Doesn't Add Up
International researchers are calling for more research on dyscalculia, the mathematical equivalent of dyslexia, suggesting that it could improve economic growth.
Professor Brian Butterworth says the lack of funding reflects a view that researching and improving literacy is more important than numeracy.
However, Professor Butterworth’s research indicates that those with low numeracy earn less money, spend less money, and are more likely to be in trouble with the law.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
Public Schools Face Cuts
In a recent report, Associate Professor Jim McMorrow says public schools face a funding cut of more than $300 million over three years if current financial arrangements aren't changed.
In the report Mr. McMorrow also foresees private schools gaining $939 million in funding in the three years.
The report, commissioned by the AEU, reveals that the gap in federal funding between public and private schools will be more than $4,800 per student; the equivalent of losing 2,800 teachers from the public school system.
The Gonski Panel, a national school funding review headed by David Gonski, is due at the end of the year.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
Could Geography Fall Off The Map?
The Geography Teachers’ Association of SA is worried that dwindling class numbers could spell the end for the subject.
The SACE Subject Participation Data report shows that Year 12 enrolment in the topic has declined by almost two thirds in the last 12 months; most likely due to students being required to enrol in just four subjects as of this year, rather than five.
Association president Alexandra Piggott believes that just five public schools are offering Year 12 geography in 2011.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
Children's Playgrounds Too Safe, Says Expert
Play equipment designed by "safety Nazis" prevents children from learning by risk-taking, early childhood specialist Prue Walsh warns.
An increasing number of kids between two and seven are getting injured in playgrounds because they don’t know how to take calculated risks.
Ms Walsh says the problem stems from two fears: parents worried about their children getting hurt, and teachers’ fears of being sued.
Ms Walsh advises that for optimum development, children need smooth boulders for balancing, shallow ponds for exploring and vegetation for children to crawl around.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
Alberton's world class
Alberton Primary School’s radical class structures and teaching philosophies are gaining worldwide acclaim.
One of 150 schools involved in the OECD’s Innovative Learning Environments project, Alberton students spend a third of their time in “Magpie Groups” of 40 children from Reception through to Year 7, with two teachers.
Another third is spent in literacy and numeracy groups in which junior primary students, Year 3-5 students and Year 6-7 students are pooled together.
Principal Andrew Plastow says test results have soared and behavioural problems are “massively” reduced as a result of the changes. Mr Plastow believes the class restructuring works because traditional class groupings are outdated, stating that in a regular Year 7 class students will be operating from anywhere between Year 2 and Year 10 academic levels.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
More Likely To Achieve In Wealthy Schools
Students from poor families are less likely to choose academically challenging subjects and more likely to fail if they do. However, if they attend a private school, their chances of obtaining high marks is more than doubled.
The Centre for Research on Education Systems submission states that this is caused by a higher percentage of students from wealthy backgrounds in private schools, resulting in a pooling of financial and cultural resources in wealthier schools.
This concentration of resources affects even the wealthiest of public school students, with the poorest students of private schools performing at the same level as the richest public school students.
Submission authors Richard Teese and Stephen Lamb analysed enrolment and failure rates for an academically challenging maths course, with the following findings:
· 29% of the poorest students in public schools enrolled for the course, compared to 45% of the richest public school students.
· Whilst in private schools, 48% of poorer students and 61% of the richest students enrolled.
· 6% of the richest students in private schools failed the course, compared to 13% of poorer students.
· The failure rate in public schools starts higher - 15% of the richest students and 29% of the poorest students failed.
For more information:
1 Jun 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 72
25 May 2011
Cyber-Bullied Seek Restraining Orders
Parents at their wits’ end with cyber bullying are going so far as to consult police about holding restraining orders against their children’s cyber assaulter.
Whilst Sturt Superintendent Tom Rieniets says that no parents are currently filing restraining orders, some cases of cyber-bullying are so severe they require police assistance for resolution.
Cyber bullying can be doled out via emails, mobile phones and social networking website Facebook.
Parents worldwide have been alarmed by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s recent announcement that he plans to allow children to use the site for educational purposes. Currently, the Facebook site discourages children under the age 13 from creating an account.
SAPOL advises that any parents with bullied children work together to save evidence of cyber bullying behaviour, and contact their school.
For more information:
25 May 2011
Teachers Restraining Autistic Kids
A parent advocacy group is demanding an independent inquiry into allegations schools nation-wide use unnecessary force to restrain autistic children.
The ABC reports that due to a lack of up-to-date training, some teachers and aides in special and mainstream schools are unnecessarily restraining disruptive children; going against guidelines from psychologists.
Deakin University Associate Professor Keith McVilly says force is being used on disabled children in schools, even when they do not pose a threat to staff or themselves, placing students, teachers and teachers-aides “in danger”.
For more information:
25 May 2011
Our Work-Life Struggle Is Getting Worse
The Australian Institute of Family Studies reports that Australian parents are increasingly rushed, stressed and anxious that they aren't spending enough time with their kids.
Dads are working 5 hours more than they did 10 years ago with 45% reporting feeling “pressed for time”.
In 1983, 50% of households had a stay-at-home parent. Today, the rising cost of living sees fewer Australians affording the same luxury - with just 25% of households having one parent in the paid workforce.
For more information:
25 May 2011
Cyber Safety Message May Save A Life
Cyber safety advocate Sonya Ryan (mother of the late Carly Ryan), is calling for cyber safety to be a mandatory part of school curriculums, saying that leaving a child on the internet unattended is akin to “putting your child in a car and telling them to drive down a street with no driving skills”.
State schools currently implement the 2009 Keeping Safe Child Protection curriculum which incorporates teaching students about protecting their personal safety when using social networking sites.
For more information:
25 May 2011
Aboriginal Student Target Falls Short
SA has not achieved its target to improve Indigenous student retention, despite recent improvements.
The Year 8 to Year 12 Aboriginal student retention rate increased from 36.4% in 2004 to 63.9% in 2010 - falling short of our 70% target.
SA is also behind on vocational education and training targets. About 8% Aboriginal students were in school-based apprenticeships in 2009; well short of the 40% target for 2010.
Aboriginal Education and Employment Services executive director David Rathman says a minimum retention rate of 70% is vital to ensure Aboriginal children have the same opportunities as non-Indigenous students.
Professor Peter Buckskin, head of UniSA's David Unaipon Indigenous College, says factors contributing to low retention rates include a lack of parental engagement and cultural understanding.
25 May 2011
Kids Need To Back Off Technology
An alarming Chiropractic Association of Australia study has found children as young as three developing bad posture as a result of electronic devices.
Surveying 600 members of the public, the report finds that electronic devices such as laptops, iPhones and hand-held gaming consoles promote bad posture.
The CAA advises children negate the related health issues (including uneven hips and rounded shoulders) by exercising more.
For more information:
25 May 2011
Western Schools Face Anxious Wait On Cuts
Larger class sizes or a user pays system are among suggestions to reverse $5.4 million in cuts planned for a school bus service for new migrant students.
Schools are currently negotiating with the State Government over plans to axe the service, which offers a free minibus transport for students in New Arrive Program (NAP) classes.
NAP classes offer intensive reading and writing support and help migrant children settle into the school system.
Effective from 2012, the cuts will affect approximately 1,000 students at 15 SA primary schools including Pennington, Richmond and Cowandilla.
For more information:
25 May 2011
No Help For Grown-Up Foster Kids
Almost 70% of Australian youths leaving foster and other forms of out-of-home care are unable to make a successful transition to independence.
A Create Foundation survey has found that 68% of children in out-of-home care have no family or friends to fall back on when they attempt to make the transition to independence.
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The issue could lie in a lack of advice, education and planning. Of the 605 young people surveyed this year, only 190 (31%) report having a plan for leaving care.
For more information:
25 May 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 71
18 May 2011
School Must Do Better With Bullies
80% of Year 12 students are not happy with how their school handles bullying. The ‘Year 12 Satisfaction Survey’ by the Centre for Marketing Schools has been touted a “wake up call” for schools by CMS director Dr Linda Vining.
The study finds that:
· 86% of students feel that school has not helped build their self-esteem
· 38% have no pride in their school
· 73% do not feel part of a close-knit caring school community.
18 May 2011
Don’t Hurt: Cyber Bullying
Cyber bullying is on the rise and invading the comfort of home - formerly a safe haven from school bullies.
The Messenger Community News’ ‘Don’t Hurt’ campaign aims to fight cyber bullies and promote online safety for young people and their parents.
Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Blundell, head of SA Police electronic crime says parents and teachers need to become better educated to help overcome the “digital divide” and combat cyber bullying.
For more information:
Contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
18 May 2011
1,000 Extra Chaplains For State Schools
The Federal Government will boost the National Schools Chaplaincy scheme by placing an additional 1,000 chaplains in public schools.
Education Minister Peter Garrett says the move will boost the "spiritual wellbeing" of students, as he expects chaplains will provide students with support and guidance with ethics, values, relationships, spirituality and religious issues.
For more information:
18 May 2011
My School Website Could Rate Home Income
ACARA CEO Dr Peter Hill says factors such as parents' income, education and ethnic backgrounds could be taken into account under possible improvements to the My School website.
Dr Hill states that the value-added measure would include factors "beyond the control of the school but (that) still influence its outcomes".
Each school's measure would not only be relative to other schools but would also take into account external elements. These include socio-economic and language backgrounds, parents' education and work histories.
The "character" of a school may also be included, such as whether it is in a small, rural setting or a large metropolitan area.
There is no time frame for the proposed improvement implementation.
For more information:
18 May 2011
More TV, Key To Serenity For Parents
A US academic says some parents are pushing their children too hard. Dr Bryan Caplan says that "investment parenting" - forcing children to take music lessons or play organised sports - does not make any difference to children when they become adults. Indeed, it could causing them become stressed.
Dr Caplan advises parents to stop trying to control every aspect of their children's lives and attempt "serenity parenting"; taking a back-seat role in their children’s lives.
In stark contrast to most parental advice, parents are also advised not to fret over the amount of TV their children watch, and to refrain from pushing them to do activities they dislike.
For more information:
18 May 2011
Poor Priced Out Of Healthy Eating
A study reports that low-income families are struggling to afford healthy foods; stating that the main issue is product prices rising at more than the inflation rate.
The SACOSS report reveals that in extreme circumstances, poor diet is not a choice but an economic necessity.
UniSA Nutrition Reseacher Dr Jon Buckley confirms that persistently unhealthy diets increase the risk of chronic disease, and calls for the Government to subsidise healthy foods.
Earlier this week Opposition education spokesperson David Pisoni questioned the Federal Government’s decision to spend $4m (almost 20% of the Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle program budget) on evaluation of the program.
For more information:
18 May 2011
Guide For Teachers On At-Risk Students
With approximately 44,500 homeless young Australians spending every night on the streets or “couch-surfing”, a resource guide has been developed to prepare teachers to help both homeless students and those at risk of becoming homeless.
Education Minister Jay Weatherill says teachers are increasingly required to support students beyond the school gate.
The guide provides information on providing assistance including accommodation, crisis care and drug and alcohol services.
Education solutions are also suggested, including flexible learning plans for at-risk students undertaking Years 11 and 12.
10,000 copies of the guide will be distributed to SA public schools and preschools.
For more information:
18 May 2011
Traineeship To Close Indigenous Gap
Up to 6,400 Indigenous students will have a chance to undertake a school-based traineeship, in a bid to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous education.
The program is due to begin in 2012, with youths receiving mentoring and case management to support the transition from school to the workforce.
Traineeships will be available to students in Years 10, 11 and 12.
For more information:
18 May 2011
SAASSO's Education Update 70
11 May 2011
NAPLAN Test Code Of Conduct
77,000 SA students taking the national literacy and numeracy tests this week are doing so for the first time under a national code of conduct.
The move stems from last year’s allegations of teachers’ cheating, which led to a SA teacher losing their job.
Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are tested on writing, language conventions, reading and numeracy
Parents will receive a NAPLAN report in September; an indication of how well their child is performing against the national average.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Expert Calls Year 3 NAPLAN Test Nonsense
Flinders University literacy lecturer Dr Barbara Nielsen is "stunned" Year 3s are asked to construct a persuasive argument in a 40-minute test this week.
According to Dr Nielsen, thousands of SA students will be attempting a task that many adults cannot complete.
SAPPA president Steve Portlock said some principals have privately raised concerns that:
· Teaching persuasive writing to junior primary students is premature.
· Students who do not grasp the exercise may become stressed.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Gillard Announces Teen Parent Plan
Last night Prime Minister Julia Gillard confirmed education as a top priority in the Federal Budget, announcing support for teen parents to continue with their schooling.
Teenage parents' social security payments (currently worth up to $625 a fortnight), will be suspended if they fail to return to school to finish Year 12 once their baby turns one.
Participants in the scheme will receive support to cover most of the cost of childcare and parenting education classes.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Welfare Gap Still Stark, Report Shows
The new ‘Unequal Opportunities’ report has highlighted that attaining further education and a well-paid job is still much easier for children in wealthier families.
Those whose fathers left school after Year 10 or below only have a 30 per cent chance of completing a degree and will earn an average of $7 less per hour than someone fathered by a university graduate.
The Smith Family CEO Lisa O'Brien says Australia's less advantaged kids need financial support to get them through school, literacy programs and mentoring support.
For more information:
11 May 2011
5,200 SA Students Skipping School Daily
The Advertiser has revealed that the average number of students skipping school has increased by about 170 between 2009 and 2010.
On average, 16,932 of approximately 170,000 public school students are absent from school.
Unexplained absences account for 3.1% of all absences; making it the third highest reason for absenteeism, behind illness and family reasons.
Higher rates of absenteeism are more prevalent among students facing personal or family hardships.
Almost one-in-five Aboriginal students is absent from school on any given school day. Indeed, some Indigenous schools have recorded attendances levels as low as 58%.
Education Minister Jay Weatherill says that the State Government has employed 12 extra attendance officers to monitor truancy.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Family Tax Changes To Benefit Thousands
Tens of thousands of low-income families could be better off by as much as $10,700 a year due to alterations to the family tax benefit (FTB).
Currently the maximum rate of FTB-Part A cuts off at age 16. The Federal Government will be extending the age limit to 19 in a bid to encourage older teenagers to complete their education.
It is believed the higher cost of raising older teenagers can act as a disincentive for families to ensure their children stay in school.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Call To Modify ‘Sitness’ Levels
National executive director of the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation Jeff Emmel says primary schools should reinstate the 1980s idea of a daily dose of morning fitness in schools.
Recent global findings are mitigating a link between regular exercise, brain development and a child's learning.
This week Dr Felice Jacka of Deakin University’s study revealed links between youth involvement in sporting activity and greater future emotional well-being.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Why Kids Need To Roam Outside
Dr Karen Martin, author of the ‘Putting Nature Back into Nurture’ report says that being outdoors is highly beneficial for children, as:
· Playing in natural environments builds children's motor skills.
· Exposure to nature is beneficial to children's mental health.
· Children with more contact with nature are able to handle stress better.
For more information:
11 May 2011
Education Update 69
4 May 2011
Teachers To Be Rewarded In Federal Budget
Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced a $1.3 billion plan to offer the nation’s best teachers a bonus.
Ms Gillard estimates that 25,000 teachers (approximately one in ten) will receive incentives under the scheme.
The first bonuses will be paid in early 2014, and will range from $5400 to $8100, depending on the teacher's experience.
Teachers' performance is likely to be evaluated using lesson observations, student test results, feedback from parents, qualifications and professional development.
Australian Education Union president Angelo Gavrielatos suggests that a collegiate approach would be more constructive.
SAASSO called for Performance Pay in our 2010 Federal Election Submission, listing it as one of five key national priorities.
In the 2009 Term 4 School Post, SAASSO also reported on the ‘Rewarding Quality Teaching’ report, condoning the Performance Pay model accepted by MCEETYA.
For more information:
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/breaking-news/best-teachers-to-be-financially-rewarded-in-federal-budget/story-e6frea73-12260482111394 May 2011
State Funding Model To Be Assessed
The State Education Department will review the new model used to fund SA public schools in light of concerns it increases principals' workloads and cuts into curriculum areas.
The state's key principal bodies had called for the new model. Whilst the South Australian Primary Principals Association says it has provided greater flexibility and certainty in managing classes and appointing teachers, there have been issues.
Association president Steve Portlock said under the new model many leaders are struggling to cover the extra non-instruction time (NIT) teachers were granted under the new enterprise agreement to plan classes and mark work
Five hours and 40 minutes NIT was awarded to secondary school teachers and four hours and 10 minutes for primary schools a week, meaning principals are now required to cover these times teachers cannot be in the classroom.
4 May 2011
Panel To Review Federal Funding Model
The Federal Government has commissioned a review of the funding for government and non-government schools.
The funding arrangements, introduced by the Howard government, have been criticised for giving too much money to private schools and not enough to their public counterparts.
The reviewing panel is due to report by the end of the year, with new arrangements expected to be implemented from 2014.
For more information:
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/axe-to-fall-on-school-funds-deal/story-fn59niix-12260452639624 May 2011
Principal Shortage Looming For State
A principal shortage could be looming in SA because top teachers are paid more, representatives say.
SA Secondary Principals Association president Jim Davies says aspiring principals should be offered incentives due to the increase in responsibility they undertake.
“There is a tendency to do a lot of after-hours work in the principalship, including meetings with parents and governing councils", Mr Davies said.
Australian Education Union SA president Correna Haythorpe believes the reason fewer people are applying for principal positions is due to the increased workload.
For more information:
4 May 2011
Fast-track Teaching
The Advertiser has initiated discussion about the possibility of launching the Teach for Australia program in SA.
The program selects outstanding graduates from fields such as maths, science, engineering and technology, to complete six weeks of intensive training.
The associate teachers then commence work in socially and economically disadvantaged schools, continuing their training whilst teaching.
85 associate teachers are currently working in Victoria and the ACT.
In our 2010 State Election Submission, SAASSO called for the program to be introduced to SA.
4 May 2011
Move To Lift Language Teacher Numbers
Flinders University will introduce a new double degree in education and languages in 2012.
A state first, the Bachelor of Education/Bachelor of Languages will allow aspiring educators to study two languages of their choice.
The course will cater to student ability, with languages offered at both beginner and advanced levels.
UniSA Associate Professor Angela Scarino recently said the number of students engaging with languages has declined in the last 20 years.
Modern Language Teachers Association of SA president Joe Van Dalen said a loss of teacher knowledge and expertise would impact on the rollout of the national languages curriculum, warning that SA will find itself with “even less teacher experience than we have now".
In the 2010 Term 1 School Post, SAASSO examined the benefits of language studies.
For more information:
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/move-to-lift-language-teachers/story-e6frea6u-1226042512376 4 May 2011
NAPLAN: Multilingual Students Top Of Class
2010 NAPLAN results show that students from homes where a language other than English is spoken have higher average scores in writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation and numeracy than students from exclusively English-speaking homes.
Students with English language backgrounds typically do better in reading.
4 May 2011
Education Update 68
20 Apr 2011
Driving program adds bonus for SACE
Students can earn credits towards their senior secondary certificate by learning to drive. The driving program consists of classroom workshops and weekly driving lessons.
Three high schools, including Reynella East College, have partnered with a driving school to offer the learner driving course as an elective subject in Years 11 and 12.
Students at other schools are also taking the course as part of their SACE through training providers.
Upon completion of the semester-long course students will receive a Certificate II in Driver Competence. It is not government funded.
20 Apr 2011
Feedback for teachers the key to lifting teaching standards
A Grattan Institute report on improving teacher performance says students are suffering because teachers are not receiving enough feedback.
The report finds that:
- 91% of teachers think the best teachers are not the most recognised.
- 71% of teachers say poor performing teachers are never dismissed.
- 63% of teachers feel current appraisals are done purely to meet administrative requirements.
Report author Dr. Ben Jensen believes that if teachers received better feedback and appraisals, their effectiveness could rise by up to 30 per cent.
Dr. Jensen calls for a new system that will focus on improving teaching, not sacking teachers.
The Grattan Institute says performance should be measured by a series of methods, including student test scores, pupil and parent surveys and external observations by principals.
For more information:
20 Apr 2011
SA students test short of the mark
A national report shows SA students' literacy and numeracy test results are some of the worst in the nation, failing to reach self-imposed state targets.
The COAG Reform Council report shows that of the 78 SA schools tested:
- 67% of Year 5 students tested for literacy were above the national minimum standard - compared to a target of 77 per cent.
- 69% of Year 9 students tested for reading were above minimum standard - 8 per cent below the aim.
- 78% of Year 3 students tested for numeracy were above the standard - 7 per cent less than the target.
Education Minister Jay Weatherill said SA had set ambitious targets and chosen schools with "scope for improvement".
The report will determine whether SA can access $44 million in Commonwealth reward payments.
For more information:
20 Apr 2011
Education Update 67
20 Apr 2011
Bush youth more likely to fall foul of law
An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report finds that youths in remote or poor areas are more likely to be in the juvenile justice system than their major city living and wealthier counterparts.
Report author Rachel Aalders found that youths from very remote areas are about six times more likely to be under community-based supervision, and five times more likely to be in detention than their counterparts living in major cities.
Despite making up only 5% of young Australians, a staggering 40% of youths under supervision in 2008-09 were Indigenous.
The number of young people in community-based supervision and detention increased slightly from 2005-09.
20 Apr 2011
Students facing tougher entry to teaching degrees
Schools Minister Peter Garrett has announced tougher university entry requirements for teaching to be introduced from 2013, in a bid to improve teacher quality.
In order to study teaching, students will have to score in the top 30 per cent of the population in literacy and numeracy.
The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership has developed the reforms, specifying four ways of being accepted into a teaching degree.
Chairman Tony Mackay said students who have recently finished school would need to achieve a certain score in year 12 maths and English, or other yet to be determined subjects.
Mature-age students will be required to sit a literacy and numeracy test, and university students who have completed an undergraduate degree will have their prior qualifications assessed.
For more information:
http://www.theage.com.au/national/education/students-facing-tougher-entry-to-teaching-degrees-20110415-1di03.html?from=age_sb
http://www.theage.com.au/national/education/students-facing-tougher-entry-to-teaching-degrees-20110415-1di03.html?from=age_sb
20 Apr 2011
South Australian Students failing to take NAPLAN test
A NAPLAN summary report shows SA student participation in the national literacy and numeracy tests has dropped each year since 2008.
- In 2008, 97 per cent of Year 3 students in SA sat the spelling test.
- In 2009 this dropped to 95.1 per cent.
- In 2010 it fell further to 93.8 per cent.
Last year, 89.5 per cent of Year 9 students sat the numeracy test while 91.5 per cent and 93.6 sat it in 2009 and 2008.
Experts suggest that schools are especially competitive now that NAPLAN results are published online.
The NAPLAN handbook for principals states that all students are expected to participate, Minister Jay Weatherill confirming that, "Principals can only exempt students with the approval of parents".
Parents can exempt students for philosophical or personal reasons.
13 Apr 2011
Gillard: Fail On Funding
According to The Australian, Prime Minister Julia Gillard is facing a revolt from teachers over the scrapping in the budget of two successful science education programs for primary and high schools.
Primary Connections, which helped primary teachers with no background in science to teach the subject, and the high school version, Science by Doing, have had their funding cut.
Four winners of the Prime Minister's prize for science teaching in primary schools have written to Ms Gillard condemning the planned cuts and calling for the funding to be reinstated.
"It would be a waste of taxpayers' money, as well as undermining the considerable sustained efforts of thousands of primary science teachers and their schools in recent years if, for the sake of a relatively small amount of money, current and future students are deprived of the benefits of Primary Connections," the prize-winners wrote.
In the 2009 Term 4 School Post, SAASSO reported that a Flinders University survey of 600 South Australian teachers revealed that more than a quarter of senior secondary science teachers are not fully qualified to teach in their current subjects.
The results showed that 42% of senior physics teachers, 28% of chemistry teachers and 25% of biology teachers did not hold a university qualification in the subject.
13 Apr 2011
Courses Face Axe To Pay For Power
A resourcing shortfall leaving two in every three state high schools without enough money to pay their electricity bills has forced a number of SA principals to hold crisis meetings.
The remaining third of schools receive more funding than they require – up to $10,000 – to cover utilities.
The imbalance and increasing pressure on school principals to juggle dwindling budgets has prompted them to demand attention from the State Government. They will do so by writing to every local MP about resourcing issues with examples of funding gaps.
South Australian Secondary Principals Association president Jim Davies says the situation has reached "tipping point" as more course offerings are jeopardised in a bid to cover electricity, cleaning and maintenance bills.
One school was $60,000 short in covering electricity bills.
"We want to get a really clear impact statement across all high schools in South Australia about the effect this is having", Mr Davies says. "The erosion of funding has led to a corrosion of what we’re able to do."
Glenunga International High School principal Wendy Johnson said: "We need proper resourcing if we want to deliver a world-class education in SA, which we know as a state we need."
13 Apr 2011
Hundreds Of Schools Still Waiting For Additional Resources
A year after education ministers approved a national action plan for indigenous students it has still not been enacted, with federal and state governments yet to endorse it and more than 860 schools waiting to receive the resources promised.
The draft action plan identifies 862 schools that have "indigenous students with the greatest need and where effort will be focused to make the greatest difference".
The Australian reports that inquiries to some listed focus schools last week found most were unaware of being on the list, with only one school confirming being contacted.
The plan identifies six priority areas for action: readiness for school; engagement and connections; attendance; literacy and numeracy; leadership, quality teaching and workforce development; and pathways after school.
It also emphasises indigenous languages and culture, and students who do not speak English as their first language.
Professor Peter Buckskin, dean of the David Unaipon College of Indigenous Education and Research and the chair of the Aboriginal education consultative committee in SA said, "We are frustrated because the plan hasn't been realised. This is supposed to be an action plan responding to a crisis in Aboriginal education. Where's the urgency?"
13 Apr 2011
Teenage Dreams Turn Into A Nightmare
Celebrity culture and academic stress are breeding depressed, anxious teenagers, says founding member of the National Coalition Against Bullying Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg.
On Wednesday the high profile psychologist presented The Salvation Army's first Growing Family Seminar Series for 2011 titled "The Five Terrors of Teenagers - Challenges for Parents and Surviving Adolescents".
Dr. Carr-Gregg warned the audience of about 200 parents and carers of teenagers that their children were under increasing stress to succeed socially and academically, and had some lofty career aspirations.
"If you wanted to design a world which would make life really difficult for young people you couldn't really have done a much better job than the one we've got."
He said family breakdown, job pressure and "SACE as a competition of who can get the highest score" is putting young people under dangerous pressure.
13 Apr 2011
Languages Are Critical
Leading national languages expert UniSA Associate Professor Angela Scarino is calling on governments to develop a policy mandating students' cultural learning in schools.
Professor Scarino, who is the head author of the Australian Curriculum languages draft shape paper, is pleading for schools to acknowledge the critical need for students to learn languages.
"It's going to be very, very sorry and sad for Australian education if you can't have graduates from Year 12, who are Australian students, learning languages that are important to us (as a country)" Prof Scarion says.
The focus on language has been reignited through the release of the Australian Curriculum languages draft shape paper in late 2010 which outlined the different languages to be taught in schools and why.
In the 2010 Term 1 School Post, SAASSO discussed the benefits of language studies in the wake of 2010 SACE changes that made languages non-compulsory for secondary students.
13 Apr 2011
Backflip On $200 School Uniform Subsidy
Families of children with disabilities at the Adelaide West Special Education Centre will now be given access to a $200 government subsidy to cover the cost of new uniforms.
The Advertiser reported last month that five of the six new super schools were given the allowance. Adelaide West Special Education Centre was the only new school not given the allowance because it had moved, as opposed to amalgamating with existing schools.
On radio last Wednesday, Education Minister Jay Weatherill said he asked the Department to explain the decision "They told me that instead of giving this school a $200 subsidy they've given them a $100 subsidy," he said.
"I then asked what's the justification for that and they really couldn't come up with a very good answer, so I've directed the department to increase that subsidy to $200."
SAASSO encourages the subsidy, director David Knuckey commenting, "With the large student population, it is crucial staff develop discipline and security from day one - a far more likely outcome with all students in a single uniform".
13 Apr 2011
Hundreds Of Education Workers Given Permanency
Approximately 800 temporary school staff have been given permanent full-time and part-time positions.
DECS reviewed the employment arrangements after the release of the South Australian Education Staff Enterprise Bargaining Award in 2010.
The school services officers (SSO) and early childhood workers had previously been on contracts.
Education Minister Jay Weatherill calls SSOs "the unsung heroes of our schools", announcing that the act will give them greater job stability.
13 Apr 2011
Education Update 66
6 Apr 2011
Education System Flawed
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Peter Anderson says that Australia's education system is structurally flawed in the fields of literacy and numeracy.
The Industry Skills Councils report, ‘No More Excuses’, finds that almost half of Australia's working age population do not have the literacy or numeracy skills required to study a trade.
As a result, between seven and eight million Australians are in danger of being confined to low-wage jobs with little prospect of improvement.
The nation’s 11 skills councils have called on the Federal Government to boost language, literacy and numeracy across all education sectors.
Mr Anderson says that business is picking up the load. "We shouldn't be the primary provider of basic literacy and numeracy education in Australia," he said.
SAASSO has been trying to draw the State Government’s attention to the literacy and numeracy skill decline for several years - most recent, in the Term 1 edition of School Post, we reported on SA’s literacy and numeracy skills slide on the international PISA tests.
6 Apr 2011
Vandalism: Schools Count The Cost
Vandalism costs South Australian schools over $6 million each year.
Figures obtained under Freedom of Information by MLC Rob Brokenshire show the average spend per school on vandalism was $11,100 in 2010.
"The (Education) Department needs to do much more than a budget line of millions of dollars to fix vandalism," Mr Brokenshire says. "We need that money going into computers, teachers and support for students.”
Mr Brokenshire suggests schools should have more power and protective security officers to determine the best risk-reduction strategies.
"The Government should consider giving stronger powers in the school context to state protective security officers responsible for the after-hours security of government assets," he said.
For the full story:
6 Apr 2011
Shock Reality Of Crashes
Over 4000 Year 10 to 12 students from 35 schools attended road safety event Street Smart, last week.
Narrated by RAH trauma surgeon Dr Bill Griggs, the event presented the harsh realities of serious car accidents, featuring a fatal road crash simulation involving emergency service personnel.
However, The University of Adelaide's Centre for Automotive Safety Research, finds that school road safety programs are missing Year 8 and 9 students.
Author Lisa Wundersitz says that extending similar programs to younger high school students may limit the risk of youths getting into cars with dangerous drivers or adopting other risky behaviours.
6 Apr 2011
University Backs Medicine Exam
The University of Adelaide will continue to test year 12 students with the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT).
The exam is under scrutiny after a study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found only a "weak correlation" between a student’s UMAT score and grade point average at university.
Aspiring SA medical students must pass the almost three-hour-long test as part of entry requirements into degrees such as medicine and dentistry.
University of Adelaide Executive Dean, Health Sciences Professor Justin Beilby said the study's results reinforced the importance of using multiple combined strategies in choosing the right students for studies in medicine.
6 Apr 2011
Fight For Autistic School In South
Seaford mum Nikki Westrip is campaigning for a specialist autistic school in the southern suburbs, saying that her son – who has Asperger’s Syndrome - has been left behind in mainstream schooling.
“He’s in a mainstream class and he just can’t cope,” said Ms Westrip. “Ricky tries to be funny with the other kids but most of the time they don’t understand and he ends up getting bullied.”
Ms Westrip is calling on families with children who have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to join a new support group to lobby for a school.
“A lot of kids with an ASD get put in mainstream classes so they can cope when they move on but it doesn’t work for everyone”, she said.
6 Apr 2011
Social media link puts parents in the picture
A senior lecturer at Flinders University proposes schools use social media in the classroom to unite parents and the school community in a bid to educate young people about its use.
A recent study by Dr. Rahamathulla found parents' involvement in their children's online activities was "disturbingly" low. The TeenSpeak survey of 500 South Australian teenagers from 13 to 17 found;
· only 4% of respondents' parents checked their child's computer screen often
· while almost 50% of respondents had argued with their parents about internet use.
Brighton Secondary School co-ordinator Warren Eaton said schools were "hesitant" of using technology - believing the ageing teaching workforce is one of the reasons for this.
For the full story:
6 Apr 2011
Distance from city affects learning
The distance a child lives from the city will affect their interests and developmental outcomes.
A new Australian Institute of Family Studies paper finds that children in major cities achieved better results for physical development and learning outcomes than children in other areas.
The results show the distance from and access to services has the most influence on children's lives.
For the full story:
6 Apr 2011
Education Update 65
30 Mar 2011
Aboriginal Education - Gap Widens
On National ‘Close the Gap Day’ it was revealed that the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous students continues to widen.
The Year 10-12 retention rate for South Australia’s indigenous students has increased from 58.5% to 64.9% over two years.
However, it is still significantly lower than the non-indigenous student rate, which rose from 74.7% to 81.1% during the same period.
The Close the Gap campaign calls on the Federal Government to take action to achieve Indigenous equality in twenty five years.
For the full story:
30 Mar 2011
Calls To Revamp TAFE
Business SA chief executive Peter Vaughan says “TAFE colleges operate like a sheltered workshop for teachers”.
Mr. Vaughn is calling on the Government for flexible industrial agreements and the ‘dismantling of the one-size-fits-all staffing policies’.
“It has, over the years, created an atmosphere which reduces productivity....”
Business SA says TAFEs are failing to solve the skill shortage crisis, because they:
· Couldn’t hire and fire staff to meet changing community demands
· Stuck to the same pay rates for all teachers
· Capped the employment of casual staff, creating an inflexible workforce
· Operated under the “dead hand” of bureaucracy
For the full story:
30 Mar 2011
Change Visual Arts Curriculum
Visual Arts teachers are demanding changes to the national curriculum. Ruth Flaherty, President of VAESA stated, “Given the very different nature of the skills and pedagogies required in the various art forms our preferred approach would be to have a performing arts strand and a visual arts strand.”
Ms Flaherty insists the Government invest in arts resources for schools. “The Government needs to be aware that if they are going to get on board with the national curriculum they need to resource it appropriately with both staff, facilities and training,” she said.
Ms Flaherty added that occupational health and safety problems could become a hazard in schools if teachers are not adequately trained in the arts.
For the full story:
30 Mar 2011
Palaeontology Week
Celebrate Palaeontology Week with the South Australian Museum’s free annual fossil festival. Aspiring palaeontologists of all ages can participate in a bounty of free activities; including searching for fossils in a ‘dig pit’, enjoying a song from singing palaeontologist Professor Flint and learning how to draw dinosaurs.
Last week Walking With Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular show visited primary schools around the state with a preview of the show. Squeals of excitement and a few tears occurred as students interacted with the lifelike baby Tyrannosaurus Rex.
For the full story:
30 Mar 2011
Aboriginal Education - Volunteer Encourages Parent Participation
Wandana Primary School mother of seven, Joanne Ashford is encouraging Aboriginal parents to get involved in their children’s education.
As part of the Parent and Community Engagement Program, Ms Ashford conducts weekly computing and cooking classes and urges Aboriginal students and their parents to attend.
Ms Ashford believes the Federal Government program is vital to her school, where a quarter of the students are Aboriginal.
“It is important, especially with Aboriginal children because statistics show they don’t perform well in the NAPLAN (national literacy and numeracy) test,” Ms Ashford says.
For the full story:
http://city-north-messenger.whereilive.com.au/news/story/joanne-makes-a-difference-in-gilles-plains/
30 Mar 2011
A Healthy Mind For Study
Flinders University education researcher Dr Katherine Dix is analysing results from mental health and well-being initiatives, such as the ‘KidsMatter campaign, and comparing it to literacy and numeracy (NAPLAN) results published on the Government’s My School website.
Initiated in 2006, KidsMatter is an Australian Mental Health promotion campaign focusing on improving primary school children’s mental health.
Chief evaluator of KidsMatter, Dr Dix believes her research will provide information on the effect mental health has on performance in schools and on test results.
Suggesting that a holistic approach to education is on the national agenda, Dr Dix also deems her research an opportunity for schools to consider their preparation for NAPLAN testing.
30 Mar 2011
Mandatory Anzac Day Commemoration
Education Minister Jay Weatherill is supporting independent MP Bob Such’s motion to make commemoration of Anzac Day mandatory in schools.
Currently it is not mandatory for schools to observe Anzac Day, though Mr Weatherill stated that he was unaware of any public school that did not observe the day.
Dr Such says, “the courage, resourcefulness and loyalty of those Anzacs became an inspiration to our young nation.” He suggests lessons and activities be conducted to educate school children on the significance of the day.
For the full story:
30 Mar 2011
Children's Voice At Come Out Festival
Launched last week, the Come Out Festival aims to inspire and develop “lifelong confidence” in SA’s children by celebrating art, performance and creativity for young people. The 2011 festival celebrates the theme of belonging.
1600 children from 24 schools used The Come Out Festival parade to voice their opinions on a variety of topics.
Some proudly protested their dinner - ‘No more peas!’, ‘I hate olives on pizza!!!’ - while others proclaimed more serious messages; such as ‘Peace on Earth’, ‘Don’t waste water’, ‘Put a roof over everyone’s head’, and ‘Save the orangutans.’
Kidman Park Primary School is participating in the festival by celebrating their sprouting vegetable garden. The ‘Putting Down Roots’ project encourages children to protect the environment and grow their own produce.
For the full story:
23 Mar 2011
Super School Dress Relief
Last Saturday, The Advertiser revealed that the State Government will spend up to $600,000 subsidising parents for the cost of school uniforms in the new Super Schools.
Up to $200 has been offered to every student forced to enrol in a super school, following the closure of their previous school.
SAASSO Director David Knuckey commented, “With the large student population, it is crucial staff develop discipline and security from day one - a far more likely outcome with all students in a single uniform”.
Chairperson of the John Hartley Super School said parents appreciated the support. “It being a low socio-economic area, I know a lot of families weren’t in the position to go out and buy a new uniform”.
For the full story visit:
23 Mar 2011
Rivalry Dividing Public Schools
A new report warns that the Federal Government is causing competition, not collaboration between public schools.
The "Exploring The Public Purposes Of Education In Australian Primary Schools" report surveyed more than 1,000 primary principals across the country, and found tensions between what principals are the purposes of public education and the realities of what is happening in schools.
Chief researcher, Professor Alan Reid from Uni SA, said the majority of principals believed the My School site provided a narrow focus on a school's educational outcomes. In addition, an emphasis on achieving high NAPLAN scores ignored other aspects of a child's education.
The report also criticises the Federal Government for focussing too heavily on the economic benefits of education, rather than preparing students to be active participants in the community. While another key concern in the report includes inadequate resource support for disadvantaged students.
For the full story visit:
23 Mar 2011
IT Cuts Anger Teachers
Cuts to a vital training program in technology have angered teachers.
In order to save money, DECS did not continue the ‘Learning Technologies Program’ for educators this year, and teachers are now desperate for further professional IT development.
The SA Primary Principals Association said a greater focus on IT in schools and training for staff was needed and fear SA will fall behind interstate counterparts without the program.
For the full story visit:
23 Mar 2011
Private School Numbers Surge
The number of students in non-government schools continues to grow faster than in public schools. ABS statistics released last week show:
- Since 2000, the number of students in private schools has increased by 21%, comapred with an increase of just 1% attending government schools.
- The total increase in students - 26,071 extra for 2010 - has been steady for the past 2 years.
- Enrolments for independent students in Years 10-12 increased by 60% in the past 15 years. Last year, there were 12,358 students in Years 10-12 at independent schools, comapred to 7,647 in 1996.
- in 2010, 45% more indigenous students are in school than a decade ago.
23 Mar 2011
Eligibility For Teacher Exit Plan
Up to 100 ageing school teachers will be eligible for the $50,000 exit bonus when application for the 'Teacher Renewal Program' opens this week.
The scheme aims to help tired, disinterested teachers transition to retirement or a different career. It is intended to be delivered mid-year - with replacement teachers (graduate or early career teachers) expected in classrooms by the start of Term 3.
Teachers who take up the payment will not be allowed to teach in a SA public school again, nor work at a government agency for 3 years.
23 Mar 2011
New Laws To Target Bullies
Attorney-General John Rau wants to introduce laws into Parliament to tackle cyber bullying.
However, the extent of the proposed legislation would make it an offence to knowingly take or publish humiliating, demeaning or degrading images of another person without their consent. Penalties involved in the new laws would range from fines to imprisonment for repeat offenders.
Mr Rau said the onus would be on the person charged to prove they has a legitimate purpose for capturing the images, other than humiliating, degrading or demeaning the victim. He said the new laws would cover anyone deliberately filming and publishing the images.
For the full story visit:
23 Mar 2011
Australia Picks Fight With School Bullies
Every school in Australia will be able to audit how safe they are under a highly-anticipated national framework. The revised 'National Safe Schools Framework' was released last week to coincide with Australia's first National Day of Action Against Bullying & Violence.
Federal Minister for Schools, Peter Garrett, said Australian schools would be better equipped to deal with bullying following the release of the framework. "This framework will assist schools and school communities to develop a comprehensive response to bullying that makes everyone in the school understand proactive and practical approaches to effective student safety policies".
There are 9 key elements, involving about 50 "key characteristics", designed to assist schools. A resource manual including an audit tool would also be atatched to the framework.
For the full story visit:
17 Mar 2011
My School 2.0
The expanded My School website continued to dominate education headlines this week.
Following overall positive response from parents, the debate quickly shifted from the site itself, to startling revelations about how your school funds are spent.
A random sampling of school budgets revealed up to a quarter of your school’s budget is spent supporting the centralised bureaucracy.
Opposition education spokesman, David Pisoni said, “... We have a top-heavy administration of our system where schools have the least amount of autonomy.”
Principals said, “the website failed to provide a full picture of a school’s operating budget....”
SAASSO Director David Knuckey was quoted, “At the most basic level, parents are entitled to know how much money their local school has to spend on their child’s education and how much is spent supporting education bureaucracy.”
For the full story visit:
17 Mar 2011
Childcare Checklist
Childcare centres that fail to meet basic hygiene and safety standards are set to be named & shamed on a My School-style government website from January next year.
For the first time, a new rating system will allow parents to compare centres in their local area and interstate, rating providers form excellent to unsatisfactory. This push coincides with next week’s release of the latest ‘National Childcare Accreditation Council’ report – which reveals some alarming statistics.
Childcare Minister Kate Ellis wants the transparency reforms to be rolled out on the existing www.mychild.gov.au website. The current website only offers basic information on childcare centres, such as fees and vacancies.
17 Mar 2011
Blitz On Bullies In Northern Suburbs
North-east high schools are utilising new ways to combat the ongoing issue of bullying in schools.
Para Hills High has introduced 3 new anti-bullying policies this year. Such as:
· Designing a plastic wristband for every student, to be handed out this term as a symbol against bullying.
· All students & parents being asked to sign anti-bullying contracts.
· Conducting conflict resolution workshops for Years 8 & 9.
At Modbury High, all students attended anti-bullying harassment seminars at the start of this year, While at Craigmore High, the school now has a system where students could report bullying in writing, rather than face-to-face.
For the full story visit:
17 Mar 2011
Strict New Code For NAPLAN
In a move to prevent a repeat of last year’s cheating debacle during the NAPLAN tests, ACARA has released a code of conduct featuring firmer guidelines for schools and a warning to educators they will be investigated if alleged breaches occur.
The code, which provides a summary of acceptable and unacceptable behaviours includes:
· Principals & test administrators should not assume that what they have done in the past complies with the testing requirements for this year’s tests.
· Cheating is not permitted.
· Providing unauthorised assistance to students during the test is inappropriate.
· Any attempt by school staff to unfairly or dishonestly manipulate test results is inappropriate.
· The content of tests must not be disclosed before scheduled tests or during the test security period.
· Dishonest and inappropriate practices should be actively discouraged & will not be tolerated.
16 Mar 2011
Online Dangers
Despite the warnings, young people are still ignoring the dangers of online use. The results of the Teenspeak survey of 500 13 to 17 year olds has found almost 1 in 5 South Australians teenagers has met in person a stranger they befriended on Facebook.
The survey also revealed:
· About 23% had been asked to be friends with strangers.
· More than 50% list personal details on the social networking profile.
· 30% of respondents’ parents never checked their child’s computer screen, 26% checked it rarely, while just 4% checked it often.
Researcher Dr Mubarak Rahamathulla from Flinders University said the insignificant role parents were playing towards teaching their children about online safety was of great concern.
For the full story visit:
16 Mar 2011
SACE Research Project
This year, SACE has introduced the compulsory ‘Research Project’, to replace a fifth Year 12 subject. It involves students choosing almost any topic they like and having to display in-depth research capabilities & complete a 1500 word essay.
SACE Board Chief Paul Kilvert, said the new SACE was designed to provide every student with skills for life - but in the lead-up to the 2011 school year concerns were raised regarding the education standard of the new subject.
A poll by the Sunday Mail of private & public schools across the state showed a wide-range of research topics been chosen. For instance:
· Cricket pitch maintenance
· The influence of The Beatles
· Demise of the video store
· The elements of a successful horror movie
· The health benefits of chocolate
· Who is to blame for obese kids?
· Is chemotherapy worth the side effects?
For the full story visit:
16 Mar 2011
Autism Workshop In Adelaide
Parents, care staff, educators – anyone wanting to understand more about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) - are encouraged to attend a workshop being held in Adelaide next month.
Sue Larkey, a highly qualified special educator, is presenting “Understanding ASD” – an informative & empowering seminar filled with ideas & solutions conducted by Dr Tony Attwood on Friday, 8th of April.
Dr Atwood is well-known for sharing his extensive knowledge of Asperger Syndrome. He has over 30 years experience and has written many papers and two bestselling books on the topic.
For more information and registration details visit:
www.suelarkey.com9 Mar 2011
My School 2.0
The much-anticipated and long-awaited update to the My School website went live last Friday.
For the first time, parents can now view schools financial data; including each institution’s 2009 recurrent income and capital expenditure, which is displayed and broken down by source of funding.
Amid a flurry of criticism, comparison and creative number-crunching, independent auditing revealed little difference in spending between private and public schools.
An analysis of the financial data conducted by auditing firm ‘Deloitte’ for ACARA says, 90% of students across the country attend a school spending between $7,400 and $18,800 on each student.
About half the students attend a school that spends between $7,400 and $10,800, while 39% have between $10,800 and $18,800 spent on them.
However, the schools spending the most money are not the elite, high-fee private schools - but mostly government schools in remote areas, those with fewer than 100 students or teaching students with disabilities.
Minister for Schools, Peter Garrett, has defended the funding discrepancies between schools - stating the size of funding fluctuated depending on schools’ needs.
By comparing private schools with statistically similar public schools, My School 2.0 also reveals that some public schools - which have half the annual income per student of independent schools - are achieving NAPLAN results which are on par with, or in some cases better than, private institutions.
For the full story visit:
9 Mar 2011
Basic Skills Focus
The Advertiser carried a story on the planned mandatory minimums for teaching literacy, numeracy and science in SA’s public schools, from 2013.
Since 2009, SAASSO has been calling for more time to be spent teaching the basics - after discovering that Australia ranks dead last amongst OECD countries in the number of hours our children spend learning core skills.
The State Government’s plan is for Year 3 students to spend 90 minutes a week on science, five hours on maths and five hours on literacy - which will just bring SA up to average OECD levels.
Click on the attachment below to download SAASSO's 2009 buleltin on 'time spent on the basics'.
9 Mar 2011
Children Locked Out Of $850,000 School Hall
The Advertiser reported last week that children at Echunga Primary School are locked out of their BER assembly hall because of a pay dispute between the Office of the Coordinator General - which manages SA’s BER projects - and building contractors.
The multipurpose hall is vacant with plumbing, electrical and landscaping work still to be completed. The school, which has no other covered area for assemblies or school-wide activities, had expected to be using the new building last year.
Builders have condemned how the BER is managed, saying they are owed thousands of dollars for work completed months ago.
Because of the dispute, no work has taken place on the site since last December, leaving the school short on facilities and parents questioning the $850,000 price tag.
For the full story visit:
9 Mar 2011
Schools Warned On Grog Funding
The Australian National Council on Drugs is accusing schools of ‘sending mixed messages to children’ by using alcohol for school fundraisers.
Chairman Dr. Herron has written to every school principal in Australia expressing concerns about students being used as “couriers” between school and home for fundraising activities.
Dr. Herron also complained about school staff organising paperwork related to alcohol sales.
Dr. Herron claims that wine-tasting events and alcohol products labelled with the school name had gone “under the radar” and hopes his letter will be a wake-up call for parents.
Not surprisingly, online parent comments in reaction to the story failed to see the link between wine-tasting and binge-drinking.
For the full story visit:
9 Mar 2011
Literacy Teaching Uses The Write Stuff
A UniSA academic says literacy experts have focussed too heavily on researching the way children learn to read, and less on writing.
Associate Professor Susan Hill says that research shows a lot of young children start out learning to read by starting with writing first.
“There is more research on reading than writing ... There needs to be other research focussing on the relationship between reading and writing.”
9 Mar 2011
Review Teacher Right Of Return
SA’s Secondary Principal Association is calling for an end to country teachers getting priority placements when they return to the city.
Rather, incentives for country teachers should focus on increased salaries and benefits.
Association President, Jim Davies said having to guarantee places to returning country teachers “held up” the opportunity for leaders to openly advertise their vacancies and appoint educators based on merit.
Mr. Davies suggested examples such as low interest loans and salary scale increases for hard to staff and country schools.
The SA branch of the teacher’s union disagreed with the suggestion.
9 Mar 2011
Permanent Placement For Teachers?
Education Minister Jay Weatherill looks set to throw out the rule requiring teachers to transfer after a decade at the same school claiming, ‘too many teachers on short-term contracts endure years of uncertainty”.
The teacher’s union said, however, that abolishing the 10-year rule was not necessarily the solution - pointing out a danger that you will have no movement in schools.
The Secondary Principals Association said that Mr. Weatherill had now watered down views expressed last year about the need for greater autonomy in schools. It said principals were in the best position to recruit staff which matched their school’s requirements.
2 Mar 2011
National School Chaplaincy Program
This month, The National School Chaplaincy Program discussion paper was released as part of a national consultation process, allowing interested parties to have their say about the program and options for its expansion.
The program is voluntary, and aims to support school communities that wish to access the services of a school chaplain or secular pastoral care worker to assist them with supporting the wellbeing of their students.
Last year, the Gillard Government announced an extra $222m would extend this successful program through to 2014, and also provide funding for up to 1,000 extra schools from next year.
Responses to the Discussion Paper will be received until 18 March 2011.
For more information visit: http://www.deewr.gov.au/schooling/nationalschoolchaplaincyprogram/Pages/home.aspx#nationalconsultation
2 Mar 2011
Rural Principals
According to a recent survey, most school principals sent to rural areas are inexperienced.
John Halsey, a professor of rural education at Flinders University, revealed:
· 83% of respondents reported that their first experience as an educational leader was in a rural school.
· 46% indicated they had no preparation for leadership.
· 29% reported that they had only attended short courses.
· 90% believed becoming a rural educational leader needed a better pathway.
For the full story visit:
2 Mar 2011
Weatherill Backs Down On Amalgamations
Under the State Government’s budget cut plan to merge 67 co-located schools, Jay Weatherill has now revealed high schools will not be forced to amalgamate.
Mr. Weatherill told Parliament last week the "lion's share" of amalgamations and savings would come from merging junior primary schools with primary schools. "The truth is that the high school amalgamations do not actually provide much by way of savings," he said.
A few weeks ago we reported Modbury High School was against the merging of their school and had produced a 600-signature petition. Governing Council Chair Julie Caust said the Minister had advised the school of the Government's position, and was now seeking confirmation in writing.
7 of the 67 schools marked for amalgamation were high schools.
For the full story visit:
2 Mar 2011
Truancy In Our Public Schools
New figures reveal the continuing truancy problem in SA’s public schools, prompting calls for more truancy officers, counsellors & greater responsibility from parents to ensure their children get an education.
DECS figures obtained under a FOI request by Family First MLC Robert Brokenshire show:
· 50 schools have a non-attendance rate of more than 13%.
· The state average is 3%.
· Indigenous schools have attendances as low as 58%.
Executive Director of SA’s peak social service body, Ross Womersley said, "The most obvious link to truancy is a lack of job opportunities and what follows is long periods of unemployment, low income and people more likely to end up impoverished."
Mr. Brokenshire said the problem had been worsened by the decision to increase the state school leaving age to 17 from 2009.
For the full story visit:
2 Mar 2011
Bullying Review
Jay Weatherill has appointed former education department boss Bill Cossey to undertake an independent review of bullying in schools - specifically looking at how anti-bullying policies were applied in the recent northern suburbs case, which resulted in assault charges being laid against a few students.
Mr. Weatherill says Mr. Cossey will also focus on the cooperation between schools, DECS & police when dealing with violent incidents. "These are not behaviours that are taught in our schools, they are brought into our schools," he said.
For the full story visit:
2 Mar 2011
Computers In Schools Program
The Federal Government’s $2.2b national ‘Computers In Schools’ program, which aims to give all students in Years 9 - 12 access to a computer by the end of 2011, has had a generally positive review by the Commonwealth Auditor-General Ian McPhee.
Schools Education Minister Peter Garrett said the Auditor-General’s report showed the roll out was on track, with 413,808 or 53% of computers already installed. The report revealed:
· 97% of schools achieved the required computer to student ratio of 1:2 in Round 1 by the target date of June 30, 2010.
· 80% of schools achieved the 1:2 ratio in Rounds 2 and 2.1, in advance of the March 2011deadline set by the government.
His only complaints related mainly to the administration of the fund, and his three recommendations were agreed to by DEEWR.
For the full story visit:
2 Mar 2011
My School 2.0 To Go Live This Friday
After a 3 month delay, the Federal Government’s revamped My School website will finally go live from Friday, 4th March.
In an Australian first, My School 2.0 will reveal school financial data; including each institution’s 2009 recurrent income and capital expenditure, which will be displayed and broken down by source of funding.
However it was reported in The Advertiser this week, that independent schools are becoming increasingly concerned financial data on the site will be used in a government review of public & private school funding.
But SAASSO Director David Knuckey, who was also quoted in the article, stated My School 2.0 would help parents track their child’s progress and monitor funding in schools.
“Knowing how school funds are spent will empower parents and generate an accountability which has been lacking in our public education system,” he said.
For the full story visit:
23 Feb 2011
Release Of Teacher Standards
This month the new National Professional Standards for Teachers was released.
There are seven standards which cover three domains of teaching. They describe the professional knowledge, practice, and engagement expected of teachers in four career categories – graduate, proficient, highly accomplished & lead.
Last year, MCEECDYA released the Draft standards and sought input from members of the community. SAASSO was one of the education stakeholders involved in the consultation process and produced a submission in May.
Unfortunately, in the time since, SAASSO has not received any feedback on our submission - and with the Standards now finalised, it appears our parent concerns have been ignored.
Some important points identified by SAASSO as missing in the Standards were:
· Who will assess teachers against these standards?
· How will the standards be measured?
· How can we attract the best people to teaching in the first place?
· Will they be mandatory? And if not, what is their purpose?
For the full story visit:
23 Feb 2011
Parents Turn To Religious Schools
Enrolments for religious schools in S.A are rising – regardless of the faith of the children’s parents. Enrolment figures show:
· In 2010, 48,783 students were enrolled in Catholic schools – an increase from 46,665 in 2005.
· Enrolments in Anglican schools between 2007 - 2010 increased by 7%.
· In 2010, 11,814 students were enrolled in Lutheran schools - an increase from 10,029 in 2005.
· Uniting Church schools in SA had approx 5500 students - a 10% increase from 2005.
Spokespeople from the school sectors said parents chose religious schools for several reasons such as; increasing numbers of indigenous and overseas students, increasing demand for independent education, and special efforts made to accommodate children with special needs and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
For the full story visit:
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/ipad/parents-turn-to-religious-schools/story-fn6bqphm-122600905401723 Feb 2011
Aim High For Early Success
A study for the National Centre for Vocational Education Research shows students who set an ambitious goal in high school are more likely to achieve it - than those who simply plan to attend university.
Using data for people who were in Year 9 in 1998 and tracking them through the next decade, sociologists from the Australian National University found secondary students with specific occupational plans were more likely to achieve high-status employment – even after taking into account differences in educational plans and rates of university completion.
23 Feb 2011
BER Update
A cost benefit analysis has found SA public & private schools have done well with their share of the Federal Government’s stimulus spending.
The first full report of the BER Implementation Taskforce said that in SA, the Government avoided multi-party tendering, and instead matched pre-qualified builders with schools and controlled costs by independent quantity surveying.
However, it’s been reported that some school building projects have defects that puts students’ safety at risk. State Government documents obtained by FOI laws shows 23 building defects identified by 5 schools.
Family First MLC Robert Brokenshire states the amount of defective work identified is expected to increase as more projects are completed and handed over to schools.
23 Feb 2011
Unclaimed Child Care Rebate
Up to 100,000 families – 8,000 in SA – are failing to claim up to $190m in childcare rebates.
The rebate, which has no income test, offers up to $7,500 a year for care. But Childcare Minister Kate Ellis has revealed many parents aren't aware they are eligible for it, and many families don't realise they can claim the 50% childcare rebate for after-school care.
In addition, the Gillard Government plans to introduce legislation into parliament this week to change the rebate payment system, which is currently paid quarterly.
From July, the Government wants the 50% rebate to be paid fortnightly, and in some cases weekly.
23 Feb 2011
Canteen Spy Technology
Canteens are starting to embrace online technology, allowing parents to spy on their child’s eating habits.
At Kardinia International College in Victoria, students can only buy food items with an electronic card, and load the card using a machine at school or from the internet.
When students use the card, their photo appears so serving staff are aware of any restrictions on what they can eat. If parents have stated their child can’t order a certain food, the transaction will be refused.
This comes after a survey of 12,000 students by the Cancer Council and Heart Foundation found 1 in 4 students are overweight or obese.
The “National Secondary Student’s Diet & Activity Survey 09-10” also revealed:
· 76% did not meet the recommended intake of vegies a day & 56% didn't meet the daily intake of fruit.
· 30% drink 4 or soft drinks/cordials/sports drinks a week.
· 43% ate take-away at least once a week.
For the full story visit:
23 Feb 2011
Premier’s Be Active Challenge 2011
SA schools are again being encouraged to ‘get up and be active’.
The ‘Premier’s Be Active Challenge’ invites volunteers from R to Year 9 to be active for 1 hour a day for at least 4 weeks. Successful participants receive a medal, and high-achieving schools completing 10 weeks receive funding towards physical activity resources for their school.
Schools have until 31st of March to register for 2011.
For more information visit: www.pbac.sa.edu.au
16 Feb 2011
Super Schools A Crime Haven
For several years, parents have been voicing concerns about the Rann Government’s Super Schools. These fears were heightened last week following the sickening attack on a student at Craigmore High School, leading Education Minister Jay Weatherill to comment that violence isn’t caused by schools, but is brought into schools.
In Monday’s edition of The Advertiser, a US criminologist warned that super schools will lead to more schoolyard violence, theft, substance abuse and gang participation.
Professor Marcus Felson argues that large schools put more problem students together and make it difficult to supervise behaviour. His research was recently discussed at a crime prevention conference in Adelaide.
SAASSO Director, David Knuckey, was also quoted in the article, referring to local and international studies which show a clear link between school size and the quality of school life for both staff and students.
Mr. Weatherill, rejected these claims saying that enrolments at the largest super school was less than at St. Peters College and Westminster.
16 Feb 2011
School Funding Review
Last year, the Federal Government announced the commencement of a review into funding arrangements for all Australian schools.
The panel leading the review consulted with education stakeholders across the country in the second part of 2010 to seek their views on school funding.
In December, the panel released an ‘Emerging Issues Paper’ - summarising these views and inviting broader discussion from the community through a call for public submissions.
Submissions are invited on the issues presented in the Paper, and can be made until Thursday 31 March 2011.
For more information visit:
16 Feb 2011
Modbury Fights School Merger
Modbury High School has vowed to fight the State Government's merger plans for schools.
The school is assigned to amalgamate with adjacent Modbury South Primary School by 2013, but concerned parents have lodged a 600-signature petition demanding plans to merge the schools be scrapped.
Modbury High School’s Governing Council chair, Julie Caust, said the parent body was worried the merger would see administrative staff lose jobs at both schools, and enrolments at the high school decrease. She said more than half of the school’s students came from outside the school zone, as they were attracted by the traditional high school education it offered.
Modbury High parent Natalie Clark Reynolds said a meeting with DECS last month failed to justify the merger.
16 Feb 2011
'Copycat' Tactics
The Opposition has accused the Federal Government of copying a Liberal policy that supports public school becoming self-governing.
Opposition Education Spokesman Christopher Pyne has responded to reports the Government was moving towards US-style charter schools, proposed in a briefing paper submitted to a meeting of state education ministers in December.
He stated that Labor had been a late convert to school autonomy – where schools would be handed responsibility for budgets and the hiring of teachers to principals and school councils.
Mr Pyne added that while the Opposition welcomed increased school autonomy, the Government was now plagiarising long-held Coalition plans after years of criticising them.
16 Feb 2011
Students Fast-Tracked To Uni
A new program will permit Year 12 students to study university subjects and make it count towards their SACE as well as their degree.
‘The University Extension Program’ will begin this year, allowing Year 12’s to study first-year undergraduate subjects in areas such as English, physics, biology, chemistry and maths at Flinders University, the University of Adelaide and UniSA.
About 60 students from both public and private schools are expected to take part – with 12 coming from the Australian Science and Maths School.
10 Feb 2011
School Violence
Serious incidents such as violent outbursts are continuing to rise in schools, with 50 a week reported last year.
‘The Critical Incidents Report’ by DECS, shows schools reported 1,974 issues last year, compared with 1,519 in 2009 - almost doubling over the past three years.
Deputy CE Jan Andrews said there was also a change in social behaviour. In 2010:
· There were 97 reported cases of problematic sexual behaviour.
· 581 violent outbursts.
· 124 incidences of weapons being brought to school.
In addition, figures obtained by The Advertiser reveal:
· 5,086 students were suspended from the system in Term 2 2010, including 139 children aged between just 4 and 6.
· Public school students committed 2,444 violent or illegal acts during Term 2 2010 - a increase of 12% on the same period in 2009.
· Boys aged 13 to 16 were the biggest culprits, with 2,222 of them being suspended during that time.
For the full story visit:
10 Feb 2011
Teacher Conduct Breaches
It’s been revealed from October 2009 to October 2010, half of the breaches dealt with by the Teachers Registration Board (TRB) were related to teachers being engaged in ‘improper’ relationships with students.
In this period, 8 inquiries were held into unprofessional conduct of educators. This included:
· A male teacher being reprimanded for taking a female, 16, on a social outing.
· A female teacher being disqualified from being re-registered after she failed to “maintain appropriate boundaries” with a student.
The board warned similar incidences might occur in the future as a result of social networking sites and mobile phones.
10 Feb 2011
Drug & Alcohol Survey
A recent report released by the Federal Government has revealed more secondary students are using the drug ecstasy - but fewer of them smoke.
The ‘2008 Australian Secondary Students Alcohol & Drug Survey' shows:
· The proportion of 16 and 17 year olds who had reported using ecstasy in the month before the survey rose from 2.3% in 2005 to 3.4% in 2008.
· 12 to 17 year olds drink less alcohol, but 44% of recent drinkers aged 16 and 17 are bingeing.
· Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance – with 14% of all high school students surveyed having taken it at least once.
For the full story visit:
10 Feb 2011
$50,000 To Retire
The State Government has announced a new scheme where poorly performing teachers will be rewarded $50,000 to leave the profession.
Under the Teacher Renewal Program, ageing teachers, or those disengaged after years in the system, will be encouraged to consider the payment as a transition to retirement or another career – resulting in more permanent positions for graduates and early career teachers who struggle to find long-term employment.
The $50,000 "burnout bonus" is already in operation in Queensland and Victoria, and will start in S.A this year. It will also be voluntary; however principals can raise the initiative as an option for staff.
Not surprisingly there has been mixed reactions to the new scheme, with concerns it may encourage some teachers to underperform to gain the cash.
For the full story visit:
10 Feb 2011
New C.E Finally Announced
It’s taken four months, but Jay Weatherill has finally announced the appointment of a DECS Chief Executive.
Keith Bartley, 57, is a father of six and currently the head of England’s professional teaching regulatory body. He will replace former department head Chris Robinson, who was sacked in September last year.
Mr. Bartley has previously run the education and children’s services department in England, and was a high school teacher and school leader for 13 years.
He will take up his position on May 1.
For the full story visit:
10 Feb 2011
Parents Want Schools & Teachers Ranked
An online survey of 4,806 Australians has shown the majority of parents want bad schools named and shamed publicly to improve education, and most support annual performance reviews of teachers.
Conducted by the Sunday Mail and sister Sunday newspapers from across the country, the survey gives us an idea of what parents would like to see in schools. Some of the revelations include:
· 66% of parents say the naming & shaming of bad schools would pressure governments to improve them.
· 93% support annual performance reviews of teachers.
· 91% say school uniforms should be compulsory.
· Almost 80% say sex education should be taught at school.
· 69% support banning junk food from school canteens.
· 90% say learning to spell well is a major priority in their children's education.
· 60% support the BER program.
10 Feb 2011
New Super School
The start of the 2011 school year saw yet another of the state’s six ‘Super Schools’ open its doors to students and parents.
The Birth to Year 7 School at Blair Athol will provide students with modern facilities; including specialist science facilities, a cooking centre, and areas for music, radio and television production.
The school also contains ecological features such as; vegetable gardens as part of classroom programs, water harvesting, natural ventilation and skylights.
For the full story visit: