Program to help teachers switch to secondary

• New $22.4million program for primary teachers to train for secondary schools

• Part of planning for move of year 7s to secondary schools in 2015

Education Minister Peter Collier today launched a new $22.4million teacher training program as part of preparations for the move of year 7s to secondary schools in 2015.

Called Switch, the new program will train primary teachers to teach in secondary schools and secondary teachers to teach additional specialist subjects.

"This program will help counter the expected oversupply of primary teachers and shortage of secondary teachers when year 7 students move to secondary schools in 2015," Mr Collier said.

"We are moving year 7s into secondary schools to ensure our young people are provided with the best education possible.

"The move has been timed to coincide with the introduction of the new national curriculum.  The transition will see year 7 students able to access specialist facilities available in secondary schools, including science labs."

Secondary teachers specialising in maths, science, design and technology and special education will be in demand.  English, society and environment, physical education and language teachers are also needed.

"The advantage of this program is that training will be developed for each teacher based on their qualifications, skills and previous experiences," the Minister said.

"Some teachers will require a university-based graduate certificate while others will need tailored training to build their subject knowledge so they can teach students from years 7 to 9."

Course costs associated with training will be funded by the Liberal National Government, as will teacher relief so Switch teachers can meet training commitments.

        Fact File

• Permanent and fixed-term primary and secondary public school teachers are eligible

• Switch expressions of interest are now open and the first intake for graduate certificates will start in July 2013

• $22.4million for teacher training was allocated in 2012-13 State Budget as part of year 7 move

Minister's office - 6552 6300