Record number of Independent Public Schools

• 178 more schools to become Independent Public Schools next year

• Brings total number to 442, about 57% of all WA public schools

• IPS initiative provides schools with increased decision-making power and autonomy

More than half of all Western Australian public schools will be operating under the flexible Independent Public School model next year, following a record intake of 178 schools.

Announcing the schools today, Education Minister Peter Collier said the new intake would mean about 70 per cent of all WA public school students would be learning in Independent Public Schools next year.

"The Independent Public Schools initiative is one of the most significant education reforms in decades and has transformed public schooling in Western Australia," Mr Collier said.

"WA is leading the way in giving local schools and communities more say and flexibility in the way they offer education to meet the needs of students.

"With the school and community working together, the most appropriate decisions for students can be made because they know what is needed and what works."

The Minister said other States and Territories were following WA's lead in developing school autonomy programs and the Federal Government was also emulating the initiative.

"Other governments have recognised this initiative is creating strong foundations for empowered school communities, for innovation in schools, and for future improvement in student achievement," he said.

Since the commencement of the Independent Public Schools program, the State Government has committed $106.2million for the eight years to 2017-18.

Mr Collier said an independent evaluation by The University of Melbourne found the IPS initiative was characterised by energy, motivation, innovation and engagement.

      Fact File

• 174 schools completed a development program and were chosen through a rigorous selection process; four new schools opening in 2015 will also be independent after community consultation and completion of a modified development program

• Of the 178 schools, 51 are in the country and 127 are in the metropolitan area

• For a list of the schools go to: http://biggerpicture.education.wa.edu.au  

Minister's office - 6552 6300