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Primary Schools In The Morwell Electorate To Benefit From Maths And Science Specialists

Primary schools in the Morwell Electorate will benefit from the expansion of the Victorian Coalition Government’s successful investment to increase student participation and engagement in maths and science in

By Russell Northe - 19th November 2013 - Back to News

Victorian government schools.

Minister for Education Martin Dixon said the $24.3 million Primary School Maths and Science Specialists initiative is designed to improve the standard of maths and science education in schools.

"This Government considers the strengthening of maths and science education in schools as critically important to enhancing Victoria’s economy through innovation in science and technology, research and development, and in other areas like health, agriculture, commerce and trade," Minister Dixon said.

"It is vital for students to be engaged in maths and science in primary school, setting the groundwork for future study in secondary school and beyond."

In 2012 and 2013 one hundred teachers in 55 schools underwent training provided by the Australian Academy of Science and Deakin University with other experts from universities across Victoria.

As part of the second round, 100 additional maths and science specialists will be up-skilling and working in 59 schools across the state from the start of next year.

The specialists undertake 20 days of professional learning over the two-year period, and split their time between classroom teaching and working with staff.

Minister Responsible for the Teaching Profession Peter Hall said the program was demonstrating positive outcomes for students and teachers alike.

"This program supports the Victorian Coalition Government’s push to ensure Victoria remains at the forefront of scientific research and development.

"Schools participating in the first round noted improved teacher capacity, confidence and knowledge in teaching maths and science and increased student engagement and achievement," he said.

Member for Morwell Russell Northe said Churchill Primary School, Churchill North Primary School and Latrobe Special Development School are among 59 primary schools to take part in the $24.3 million five year program.

"The initiative was aimed at improving teacher’s confidence and the ability to teach maths and was an important means of increasing student’s participation in the subject," Mr Northe said.

"Two mathematics specialists, who have been chosen from Churchill Primary School, Churchill North Primary School and Latrobe Special Development School to support maths learning, will work in the school and with other nearby schools from the start of next year.

"I commend the teachers and staff for applying to participate in this project to focus on how best to teach students mathematics."

Media contact: Russell Northe 5133 9088

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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