Boys achieving success at Bundaberg school
15 September 2009
Bundaberg's Kepnock State High School has found an innovative way to tackle truancy and bad behaviour among boys.
The school's Boys Achieving Success Program combines key learning areas with life skills classes in a creative, flexible program to suit boys with a record of referrals for disruptive behaviour.
Principal Jennifer Maier said the feedback has been extremely positive, especially from parents.
'It is a great example of a group of dedicated teachers working together to reduce levels of truancy and bad behaviour,' Ms Maier said.
'The teachers had volunteered to take part in the program and male role models, Indigenous teacher aides and learning support teachers are also involved.
'The program is achieving good results and the students who were not focusing are now more able to learn in class.
'In addition, the classes which these boys used to be in are now able to focus on their learning so it's a positive outcome all round.'
Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson congratulated the school on its success.
'This is the sort of school-based solution to tackle truancy and bad behaviour that is working so well in individual communities,' Mr Wilson said.
'Every day counts when it comes to education and innovative projects like Boys Achieving Success are making a significant contribution to getting kids engaged and excited about learning.'
Mr Wilson said it was impressive to see principals across the state taking leadership on the issue of disruptive behaviour and truancy.
'Another example is the truancy officer engaged by Beenleigh State High School on Brisbane's south side,' he said.
'This school is working closely with police to address this serious issue in response to parent and community concerns.'
For more information on tackling student truancy, visit the Every Day Counts website 
Other languages