The Minister for Education and Skills, Nick McKim, today said he
hoped certainty over school term dates for 2013 would soon be provided for the
Tasmanian community.

Mr McKim said he awaited the Tasmanian Industrial Commission's
decision on the Department of Education's application regarding annual leave
arrangements for teachers, after final submissions were presented
today.

 

"The implementation of the four term school year has always been
about what is in the best interests of Tasmanian students," Mr McKim
said.

 

"Research shows that shorter, more concentrated spans of
learning time facilitates more effective student learning
outcomes.

 

"I understand that the Tourism Council is concerned about the
impact the proposed four term model will have on tourism in
Tasmania.

 

"However, I believe that the educational benefits for our young
people, and in turn the economic impact a highly educated and skilled workforce
will have on Tasmania, outweighs this concern.

 

"I look forward to hearing the Commissioner's decision on the
Department's application, and I am hopeful that we will be able to resolve this
issue soon in order to provide certainty around the term dates for next
year."