Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates the Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP, state and territory education ministers, and the National School Reform Agreement Expert Panel for convening today’s Ministerial Reference Group meeting.
Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates the Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP, state and territory education ministers, and the National School Reform Agreement Expert Panel for convening today’s Ministerial Reference Group meeting.
Teachers, principals and students joined ministers, government officials and key education stakeholders to consider the key questions raised by the expert panel.
ISA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Graham Catt said today, “The discussion today was respectful and insightful.
“This is exactly the collaboration we need if we are to achieve meaningful reform.
“It shows that we can bring people together from across sectors, backgrounds and roles, focus on common challenges, and explore bold ideas and innovative solutions.
“The school education sector does face significant challenges, especially in improving outcomes for disadvantaged and at-risk students, supporting wellbeing, and addressing workforce issues.
“Independent schools are uniquely positioned to contribute insights for solving problems in the education sector.
“Our sector is incredibly diverse and provides quality education to a wide range of families and communities.
“In fact, many of our schools were formed by families and communities to meet specific learning and other needs.
“Independent schools have the agility and autonomy to innovate and trial new programs and initiatives, and are often early adopters of new technologies and pedagogical approaches.
“There is a body of evidence in these schools that can be shared across settings and sectors.
“Independent Schools Australia support’s the Government’s objective of ensuring that all schools are funded to 100 per cent of their Schooling Resource Standard by the end of the decade.
“ISA is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders in the education sector to get the best outcomes for every Australian school student and we commend Minister Clare for bringing those stakeholders together today,” Mr Catt said.
ISA is the peak body representing 1,209 Independent schools with 688,638 enrolled students (full time equivalent), accounting for approximately 17 per cent of Australian school enrolments and a workforce of 115,090 people.