Key timelines

The Queensland Government's sweeping program of Education and Training Reforms for the Future (ETRF) began in 2003 after release of the White Paper in November 2002. Check the following timeline on the future for education and training in this State:

2003

39 schools begin trial of a Preparatory Year using the new draft early years curriculum. More information available here
MACER report on Middle Phase of Learning delivered
Middle Phase of Learning State School Action Plan released
Trial of Senior Phase of Learning reforms begin in seven trial areas (15 education districts)
District Youth Achievement Plans finalised in trial areas across half the state
21 extra Youth Support Coordinators employed. More information available here
Historic legislation passes: Youth Participation in Education and Training Act 2003 and Training Reform Act 2003
TAFE launches new course — Skills for the Future.

2004

27 more schools join Preparatory Year trial
Increased time for curriculum coordination in Middle Phase of Learning
Consultation on new Senior Certificate (new window)
Trial of the Senior Phase of Learning reforms extended statewide and new trial areas formed
Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan guidelines finalised. More information available here .

2005

30 more schools offer the Preparatory Year (bringing total to 96)
New early years curriculum accredited for preparatory year. More information available here
All Year 10 students have opportunity to complete Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan
Statewide community mentoring program begins
79 more Youth Support Coordinators begin work across the state. More information available here
New initiatives for Senior Phase of Learning trials begin.

2006

25 more schools offer the Preparatory Year (bringing total to 121)
Last year of part-time State preschool
A new law, the Youth Participation in Education and Training Act 2003, requires young people to stay at school until they complete Year 10 or turn 16, whichever comes first. They will then be required to participate in education and training for another two years, or until they have gained a Senior Certificate or a Certificate III vocational qualification, or until they turn 17
All Year 10 students required to register with the Queensland Studies Authority (QSA) and begin 'banking' learning credits towards a Senior Certificate. More information available here
A new web-based and freecall information service on career pathways begins.

2007

The full-time Preparatory Year begins, replacing part-time sessional preschool
Class size targets reduced to one teacher for 28 students in Years 4 to 10 in state schools.

2008

The compulsory school starting age increases six months
Students graduating from Year 12 receive a new Senior Certificate. (new window)

^ Top of page