MINISTER for Education Peter Chandler recently spent three days visiting remote schools on Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula including the renowned Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy established by national Indigenous leader Noel Pearson.
Following the release of Bruce Wilson’s draft review of Indigenous Education, Minister Chandler has been visiting remote Territory schools to get a first-hand account of the issues facing educators.
“I’ve been to schools in Central Australia, Gove and Groote Eylandt discussing with teachers and principals how we can improve attendance and results,” Mr Chandler said.
“What I’m now interested in is seeing how Indigenous education is being successfully delivered in other jurisdictions with the hope of incorporating aspects in the implementation of the Indigenous Education Review.
“Noel Pearson’s Cape York Aboriginal Australian Academy is regarded as the nation’s best practice in Indigenous education where a well-structured program, over four categories; Class (lessons), Club (sport and recreation), Culture and Community is delivering exceptional results.”
Elements of the Academy’s program are recommendations in Bruce Wilson’s draft report.
“Secondary school is not offered at any of the three campuses, when students reach Year 8 they travel to major regional centres or cities to complete their education. I will be interested to see how students are prepared for this and how the community supports them.
“Schools employ the Full Immersion Direct Instruction methodology which aides in accelerated learning through very structured and often scripted lessons aimed at bedding down the basics.
“Classes are all taught in English but there is dedicated time to learn culture and language to maintain links to the student’s Aboriginal heritage.”
