The Liberal Government is getting on with the job of delivering our long-term plan for Tasmania.
Extending high schools to Year 11 and 12 is the first important step in the Liberal Government's commitment to improving education, training and skills qualifications.
Ten schools expressed interest in joining the first stage of the $45 million plan that will improve educational outcomes.
The
Liberal Government promised to extend four high schools in the first year, but
our commitment and overwhelming support from the school community has resulted
in the addition of two extra schools.
The Implementation Taskforce has assessed 10 schools that nominated for phase
one and has recommended the following schools to start delivering Year 11 from
2015:
"Tasmanian schools have shown overwhelming support for our plan," Premier Will Hodgman said.
"This is an important step in our government's plan to improve retention rates, create a job ready generation and ensure students have the necessary skills to reach their full potential.
"All of these schools are well advanced in their planning and operation, and well positioned to begin delivering Year 11/12 courses from next year."
Each school will: be resourced to hire up to five new teachers over the next four years; receive a 0.5 full-time equivalent to start later this year to prepare for the extension; and, receive additional funding for each student enrolled in college subjects.
Students can choose classes from essentials like math, science and English, to career oriented classes including business studies or a VET Certificate in Aquaculture.
The Minister for Education Jeremy Rockliff said extending high schools to Year 11 and 12 will provide more choices for students and improve retention rates.
"Our plan sends a strong message to young Tasmanians that their education does not finish in year 10," Mr Rockliff said.
"These six schools will start delivering Year 11/12 courses from 2015, which is a significant first step toward our commitment to extend 21 high schools in rural and regional areas to Year 12 by 2018.
"Work will continue with those schools who missed out this round to help them progress in their planning to offer Year 11 and 12 in the near future."