The Tasmanian Government has opened the consultation period of the state’s ‘Reviewing Our Education System’ after the budget announced that 20 public schools have been identified for possible closure.

 

The State Government has defended its education budget austerity, citing declining student numbers in the state’s public school system as a reason behind the possible closure.

 

“In 1995 there were 65,775 students enrolled in Tasmanian Government schools, by 2010, it had declined to 59,488. This reflects broad Tasmanian population trends,” State Minister for Education and Skills Nick McKim said.

 

“Principals will today receive an information pack and support materials so that they can share details with their communities when school returns on Monday.

 

“Parents, staff and students will have a chance to voice their concerns through their School Association who will be giving feedback to me through a formal consultation process.”

 

 “Consultation packs have been forwarded to School Associations of affected schools to help them work through the consultation process with their school communities.”

 

More information about Renewing Our Education System will be available here

 

Schools will have four weeks to submit responses before consultation period ends in July