Students are set to benefit from an historic event that will map a 30-year vision for school education which will deliver a strong plan for a brighter future in Queensland.
Premier Campbell Newman said that the Government would commence extensive consultation with parents, schools, unions and schooling sectors to decide the future of school education.
“We are creating Queensland’s first ever Education Accord that will constructively bring together ideas that will benefit our children and future generations of Queenslanders,” Mr Newman said.
“The vision will build on the Queensland Plan to determine priorities for our schools and ensure present and future students are given the best possible education and job opportunities.”
Mr Newman said education was identified as a key foundation area of the Queensland Plan so it was clear that Queenslanders wanted to have the best school system in Australia.
“We have introduced a number of reforms in the area of education in the two short years since being elected.
“The Education Accord is another way this government is delivering on our election commitment to revitalise frontline services.”
Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek said the Education Accord is an opportunity for everyone to have their say on the future of education despite differences amongst groups in the past.
“It’s no secret that industry groups and governments of all persuasions have not always shared a common view of the future of education,” Mr Langbroek
“To meet the expectations of Queenslanders and deliver for students, we must work together on a shared vision that sets clear priorities for the future.
“I’m convinced that regardless of our political differences, we all want the same thing – we all want our kids to have every opportunity to thrive and become happy and successful adults.”
Mr Newman said Members of Parliament would conduct consultation with school communities across the state.
“This consultation will revolve around seven key questions, stemming from the priorities that came out of the Queensland Plan,” he said.
“Members of Parliament may then use a lottery system to select a teacher, parent and principal to represent their electorate at a day-long summit in Brisbane, where the accord will be developed.
“A brighter future is ours for the taking and I encourage Queenslanders to put their hand up and be part of this important process.”
For more information on being part of the Queensland Education Accord visit http://dete.qld.gov.au/educationaccord
