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Schools and parents Issue 1, 2006

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Message from the Premier and Education Minister

This is a very exciting time in state education in Queensland , with strong enrolment growth, record investment in new facilities, reforms in senior schooling and the introduction of the Prep Year.

In the past two months, the Government has launched a new Code of School Behaviour, a new Literacy Framework, and the Smart Choices Tool Kit. These new approaches will further strengthen our schools and ensure our education system keeps pace with the demands of the 21st century.

This has also been a significant year for our senior students with the introduction of new 'learning or earning' laws, requiring young people to be in education, training or work until they are 17. These changes will ensure young people have every opportunity to succeed in their future careers.

In April, for the first time, a statewide snapshot of the outcomes of last year's Year 12 graduates was published in major Queensland newspapers. This edition of schools + parents contains information about what the data means and how parents can use it.

Schools should play a key role in promoting healthy, active lifestyles for their students. Our Government's recently announced review of the level of physical activity and sport in our state schools will help determine how they can contribute to an improved level of student health and general fitness.

We are also implementing a Healthy Food and Drinks strategy to encourage more young people to eat healthier foods. The Smart Choices Tool Kit, launched at Albany Creek State School , will help schools implement a range of healthy food and drink options.

This edition also includes articles about enrolments opening for the new Prep Year in 2007 and the new behaviour code for state schools, as well as good advice about how parents can get involved at their schools and how they can help their children with their maths homework and reading.

As you can see, this edition covers a range of important issues relevant to parents and carers. Please enjoy these informative and interesting articles.

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