Improving literacy and numeracy is a priority for the Hodgman Liberal Government and today’s preliminary NAPLAN results are an important snapshot of how Tasmania is performing.
It is encouraging to see some improvements, however it is clear there is still a lot of work to be done.
Around 25,000 Tasmanian students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 across Government, Catholic and Independent schools undertook the tests in May.
The results show that Tasmania improved its results at or above national minimum standard from 2014 in 14 of the 20 assessments, including Years 3, 5 and 9 reading and Years 5, 7 and 9 numeracy.
It is particularly heartening to see some improvements in reading and numeracy were achieved where our 25 additional Literacy and Numeracy Specialists have started working with students at greatest risk in Years 7 and 9.
Their work is of course measured by more than just improving NAPLAN results, we want young Tasmanians to have a belief in themselves, to value education and plan for a brighter future, and we’re seeing these changes.
We want every young Tasmanian to have a good education so they can get a good job and live a fulfilling life, that’s why we’re investing a record $1.44 billion in education.
Importantly, this includes a $77 million investment in 2016 in the Students First (Gonski funding). While all schools will benefit, this money will target those with the greatest need.
There’s no greater example of this than the use of Students First to invest $17.75 million over four years in the new literacy and numeracy initiative, Learning in Families Together (LIFT).
LIFT will focus on children from kindergarten to year 2, and will encourage parents and guardians to be actively involved in their child’s learning and ensure young Tasmanians have the very best start in the basics of literacy and numeracy.
We are also continuing to extend another six rural and regional high schools to Years 11 and 12 next year, giving more young Tasmanians the opportunity to stay in school longer, get better qualifications and have a better chance of getting a good job.
This is an important and significant time for education in Tasmania and I remain committed to doing everything I can to ensure we give every young Tasmanian the very best opportunity for a bright future.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
More Media Releases from the Minister for Education and Training