The Federal Government has announced $19.6 million in investment in professional development and training for school principals.

 

Minister for School Education Peter Garrett announced states and territories will receive the funding under the Principal Professional Development component of the Federal Government’s $550 million Improving Teacher quality National Partnership.

 

“Principals provide a crucial leadership and inspirational role in schools, and should have the tools they need to provide world class learning environments for Australian students,” Mr Garret said.

 

“Across Australia, principals will be supported to prepare teachers and students for the implementation of the new National Curriculum, which is being rolled out in schools around the nation.

 

 “Training and programs focused on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and leaders are also being developed at schools right across Australia.”

 

 States are developing further individualised programs:

  • NSW: School leaders will be supported to lead innovation in the use of information communication technology in classrooms, providing greater access to students and teachers.
  • Victoria: Leaders of specialist schools will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage people and to establish cultures that support collaboration with parents.
  • Queensland: The Take the Lead Program has been extended, providing aspiring principals with a supported career pathway, as well as experience in small schools in rural and remote locations. 
  • Western Australia: A principal advisory team will be established to support principals working in challenging circumstances to lift their leadership capabilities and improve results for students.
  • South Australia: A leadership consultant with experience working with Aboriginal teachers and leaders will provide advice to other leaders, and will help develop resources and workshops.
  • Tasmania: A spaced six-month principal induction program has been further developed, to combine workshops with individual coaching and mentoring in participant’s workplaces. 
  • ACT: Leaders will access university studies and professional development programs, and national and international experts will be engaged to help improve school leadership capacity.
  • Northern Territory: A school review mentoring program has been scoped to create high functioning teams that are able to provide appropriate mentoring and support to schools.