ISA commends the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Anthony Albanese announcement of a fund of $440 million for schools to invest in facilities and services that will support students’ wellbeing if Labor is elected.
Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Labor Party’s pledge today to prioritise the wellbeing of school students if elected.
Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Anthony Albanese announced a fund of $440 million for schools to invest in facilities and services that will support students’ wellbeing if Labor is elected.
ISA Chief Executive Officer, Ms Margery Evans said today, “We commend a pledge, which acknowledges the particular challenges faced by schools and students, especially during this pandemic.
“It is easy to underestimate the impact of the pandemic on children and in 2022, we must do more to support their wellbeing and keep them COVID safe.
“Disrupted learning, uncertainty and other family stressors all contribute to anxiety and mental health challenges for children.
“As children return to classrooms for the new academic year, schools in all three school sectors (Independent, government and Catholic) have a bigger role to play in supporting the wellbeing of their students.
“Many schools are already stretched and teachers have been coping with unprecedented pressures.
“There is only so much that schools and teachers can do without additional support.
“The funding promised by Labor today should help Independent and other schools meet this greater challenge.
“The funding announced today will help identify and support students who are struggling.
“Screening for mental health issues, boosting wellbeing funding and investing in school facilities will go a considerable way in helping schools provide appropriate support for their particular needs,” said Ms Evans.
“Each school knows what they need to support their students and families.
“This may be more school counsellors, improving air quality, building outdoor learning spaces and other ways to support wellbeing.”
“If ever there was a need for investment of this nature, surely now is that time,” said Ms Evans.
ISA will have more to say on the pledges of all parties between now and an election, which is yet to be called.
ISA is the peak body representing 1,187 Independent schools with 667,259 enrolled students.
ISA Media Contact: comms@isa.edu.au