11/9/03
An exciting new education and training partnership to benefit Aboriginal students was launched in Port Hedland today.
The Port Hedland Education Partnership was launched by Graham Giffard MLC, representing Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter.
Mr Giffard also officially opened the Kurtakalku Maya 'Learning Home for the Kids', an Aboriginal education centre in South Hedland and a vital part of the partnership.
"The opening of the centre marks the beginning of extended education and training opportunities available to indigenous students, helping them maximise their future career and employment options," Mr Giffard said.
"The partnership will enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to learn the necessary skills to gain apprenticeships, traineeships or pursue further study."
Mr Carpenter said the partnership was part of the Follow the Dream aspirant program for Aboriginal students, which responded to recommendations of the Gordon Inquiry regarding the greater retention of Aboriginal students to Year 12.
He said the program had been successfully operating in other areas of the State including Karratha/Roebourne, Tom Price and Kalgoorlie. Midland, Esperance, Bunbury, Mandurah and Kununurra are other areas currently under consideration for the program.
"The Follow the Dream Program in Port Hedland is supported by BHP Billiton Iron Ore by the provision of $500,000 for a centre and equipment," Mr Carpenter said.
"The program currently supports 28 Port Hedland students from Year 8 through to tertiary entrance, who show a commitment towards progress in their education, have family support to encourage continuation of schooling and have career interests in the resource industry."
The Minister said students chosen for the program were provided with mentoring, educational development opportunities, homework supervision and work experience placements throughout their secondary schooling.
"Since the commencement of the program in 2002, there has been a noted improvement in grades and school attendance of the students in the program," Mr Carpenter said.
"There is also student involvement in the school council. The first student from the program has gained an apprenticeship with BHP Billiton Iron Ore and positions in the program have become highly competitive.
"This is a great example of how partnerships across a range of sectors - industry, community, training and education - can work together to achieve great results."
The Port Hedland Education Partners consist of the WA Department of Education and Training, BHP Billiton Iron Ore, Graham (Polly) Farmer Foundation, The Smith Family and the Commonwealth Department of Education, Science and Training.
Support is also generated from local business, Port Hedland Senior High School, Department Education and Training Pilbara District Education Office, St Cecilia's College, the indigenous community, parents and students.
Minister's office: 9213 6800
