National curriculum - introduction to schools
1943. Hon Alison Xamon to the Minister for Energy representing the Minister for Education
I refer to the Federal Government’s initiative to introduce a national curriculum, and sensitivities within the teaching community resulting from past experiences of curriculum change, and I ask -
(1) Is the Department of Education facilitating discussions on the development of the curriculum?
(2) If yes to (1), who is involved and how are they chosen?
(3) What is the timeline for introduction of the curriculum into Western Australian schools?
(4) Has a budgetary allocation been made for the development and dissemination of support materials and professional development of teachers?
(5) If yes to (4), how much?
Hon PETER COLLIER replied:
(1) No. At this preliminary stage, discussions are principally facilitated by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA).
(2) Not applicable.
(3) An implementation timeline for Western Australia is under consideration.
(4) The national curriculum has not yet been endorsed by MCEECDYA, therefore no budgetary allocation was made in the current year for the development and dissemination of support materials or professional learning. MCCEECDYA, through its companies, ACARA and Education Services Australia (ESA) will coordinate nationally, the development and dissemination of support materials for jurisdictions.
(5) Not applicable.