Media Release
23 September 2011

The union representing teachers in non-government schools has welcomed the announcement of $41.2 million in digital resources and personal development to assist teachers to implement the new national curriculum.

Federal Secretary of the IEU, Mr Chris Watt said, ensuring all teachers and schools have access to the resources they need, when they need them, will go along way to ensuring the success of Australia’s first national curriculum.

“In order for the national curriculum to work and be implemented smoothly it is important that teachers are given the assistance they need to make the transition,” said Mr Watt.

“There are exciting areas to this package, including the Language Learning Space, which will give all Australian schools the opportunity to provide students with language learning opportunities they would never have had.

“Online resources which are easily accessible and relevant will be welcomed by teachers, but it needs to be a part of a broader support strategy, and we wait to see whether this system will be able to deliver what teachers require,” said Mr Watt.

Education Services Australia (ESA) and the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA)needs to ensure they provide these services in an effective manner so what has been announced can be delivered.

“Although we welcome the announcement, this does not absolve ACARA from the fact that it hasn’t displayed the level of engagement with teachers that it should have in the past.

“Proper engagement with teachers and schools needs to take place in order to ensure that the resources meet the needs of teachers, and will therefore benefit students.

“We also remind governments and employers that resources still need to be committed to release teachers for professional development, to work collegially and share resources.

“The professional development and support of teachers is paramount in putting in place the important reform of one national curriculum,” said Mr Watt.

Media Contact: Evan Langdon 0429 020 409 or elangdon@ieu.org.a