Academic achievement a public school priority

1/04/05
A major increase in support for academic excellence in Western Australia's public schools is under way.
Education and Training Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich invited parents of WA's brightest Year Seven students to register their children for the 2006 Gifted and Talented Education programs for years Eight to Ten in public schools.
Ms Ravlich today visited Willetton Senior High School, which offers specialist classes for gifted and talented science students.
"Specialised programs in science, mathematics, humanities, languages and the arts provide a challenging, stimulating learning environment for children with exceptional abilities," the Minister said.
"We will provide an additional $700,000 over the next four years to improve identification of and services for gifted and talented students throughout the education system.
"In addition, more than $1million in scholarships will encourage and reward outstanding academic achievement.
"Perth Modern School will be developed as a centre for academic excellence, and WA's only fully selective school, with a boarding facility to cater for regional students."
The Minister said the Government gave a very high priority to promoting academic achievement in the public school system.
"Our aim is to improve the quality of public education services for all Western Australians, wherever they live," she said.
"We have committed additional resources to raise academic standards at all schools and provided funds to upgrade specialist teaching facilities at schools throughout the State.
"For example, Willetton will be one of nine schools to receive upgraded science facilities.
"We will also provide professional development and additional support to teachers to help them improve academic performance."
Ms Ravlich said students applying for the academic talent program would be required to sit aptitude tests in the week commencing May 9.
All students who sat for the selection tests would receive an individual report and based on the results of the tests, students might then be offered a place in the program.
In addition to programs in mathematics, science humanities and languages, there were programs for gifted and talented students in languages, dance, drama, music and the visual arts.
The Minister encouraged parents to nominate their children for gifted and talented education programs, using application forms available at their schools, or from the website: http://www.eddept.wa.edu.au/gifttal or by calling 08 9264 4235.
Schools offering Gifted and Talented Education programs are:

GIFTED AND TALENTED EDUCATION PROGRAMS:

Academic Talent Program (ATP) in mathematics, science or humanities:

Duncraig Senior High School

Governor Stirling Senior High School

Kelmscott Senior High School

Shenton College

Willetton Senior High School

ATP Online (for rural and remote students)

Languages other than English (LOTE):

Mt Lawley Senior High School

Rossmoyne Senior High School

Special Arts:

Dance -

Balcatta Senior High School

Girrawheen Senior High School

Hampton Senior High School

John Curtin College of the Arts

Music -

Churchlands Senior High School

Perth Modern School

Drama -

John Curtin College of the Arts

Visual Arts -

Applecross Senior High School

Balcatta Senior High School

Kalamunda Senior High School

ATP Online