Introduction from Minister Peter Garrett
The
Australian Government is proud to support the More Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Teachers in Schools initiative. The initiative aims to
increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
entering and remaining in professional teaching positions in schools,
through scholarships and other initiatives.
We know that for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander teacher at the front of the classroom can be a powerful role model.
We also know that for non-Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students, an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander teacher can help open minds to the knowledge, perspectives and histories of some of the oldest living cultures on earth, and to start those students on their own personal journey of reconciliation.
We know that there are many young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who would make excellent teachers, as well as many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people already working in various roles within schools who would be capable of stepping up to a teaching role if given the right support. These individuals deserve every opportunity we can extend to them.
This initiative is part of an ambitious national policy agenda. As a nation, we are implementing a national curriculum which is more culturally inclusive, as well as national professional standards that set out the skills we expect from all teachers and school leaders in terms of effectively engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. We have a National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Action Plan, and are making significant investments in 900 Focus Schools to lift student performance. Supporting the development of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teaching workforce is a vital part of this policy agenda.