5 February 2026
Jo Palmer, Minister for Education
More than 57,000 Tasmanian Government school students have returned to classrooms across the State today, for the start of another exciting school year.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said it was wonderful to join staff and students at West Launceston Primary school for the first day of the 2026 school year.
“It’s great to be here and soak up that first day of school excitement,” Minister Palmer said.
“We wish all our children and young people the very best for the 2026 school year, and welcome back school staff, including our dedicated teachers and principals, who play a vital role in shaping the future of our students.”
New high quality, classroom ready resources for English and mathematics, were also launched for every Tasmanian Government school.
With structured, evidence-based reading instruction now well established across Tasmanian classrooms, all schools will adopt mathematics curriculum resources in a phased way.
“Our Government is delivering for Tasmanian students by strengthening curriculum delivery and providing a more consistent learning experience across classrooms and schools,” Minister Palmer said.
“Teachers are being supported with the training and resources needed to deliver a high quality education for all students.
“These comprehensive English and mathematics materials will also reduce workload for teachers and leaders, who no longer need to source and evaluate resources independently.”
As the school year begins, Tasmanians are reminded that 40 km/h speed limits are now back in effect in school zones.