New Ideas For The Future Of Our Education System

Minister for Education James Merlino today visited Templestowe College to tour the school and learn about its cutting-edge approach to education.

Mr Merlino spoke to students and staff and heard about the school’s innovations, which include a choice of three school times (7.15 am to 1.15 pm, 8.50 am to 3.30 pm and 10.30 am to 5.15 pm).

The school has dropped reference to year levels entirely, and all students select their course load from more than 130 options.

Students are represented on the school leadership group, curriculum committee and all other committees. They are also involved in staff selection, and more than 70 students are employed in school operations.

Due to interest from other schools, the school now offers workshops for teams from visiting schools across Australia.

The 2015-16 Victorian Budget invests close to $4 billion in Victoria’s education and skills system – representing the single biggest boost to education funding in Victoria’s history.

The Budget provides $325 million to renovate, refurbish or rebuild 67 schools. It will fund the first stage of an extensive asbestos removal program so that families can be assured their children are being educated in safe schools.

It also includes $180 million for programs that will help families cover the extra costs of education, like camps, excursions and uniforms, so no child misses out.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, James Merlino

“We’re investing more than $4 billion to make Victoria the Education State, so every community has a great local school and every child gets the chance to succeed.”

“Templestowe College is finding the new ideas that may well define the future of our education system. I commend Principal Peter Hutton and all the teachers for their innovative work.”

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