This year the Liberal Government is commencing a very significant and important process towards securing a better future for all Tasmanians.
While it's early days, an increase of almost 30 per cent in year 11 and 12 enrolments at the six first schools to extend under our education improvement plan is very encouraging.
Enrolments in Year 11/12 at the six high schools have exceeded expectations, with around 176 students taking up their senior secondary education, an increase of about 30 per cent compared to last year.
Under our Plan, a greater range of subjects is now available including a wide range of core subjects like English and Maths, and vocational-oriented subjects like Engineering and Design and Production.
There's also more support than ever before, with a minimum additional 1.75 full time equivalent teachers to support tertiary and vocational education, and possibly more after census in February.
Importantly, this means the barrier of travelling large distances to continue education beyond year 10 has been removed.
This sends a strong message that education does not finish at Year 10, and will go a long way towards improving our educational outcomes and retention rates.
Schools extending this year include Scottsdale High School; Smithton High School; Huonville High School and Dover District High Schools, in partnership; and St Helens and St Marys District High Schools, in partnership.
They are the first of 21 high schools that will extend to Year 11 and 12 over the next four years as part of this $45.5 million initiative to improve education.
Each of the four 11/12 programs will be resourced to hire up to five new teachers, will receive a 0.5 full-time equivalent Advanced Skills Teacher and additional funding for each student enrolled in college subjects.
We want every Tasmanian student to reach their full potential and have the ability to seize every opportunity in the future.
The schools to begin delivery of Years 11 and 12 in 2016 will be announced in Term 1 this year.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
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