Studio Schools of Australia's game changing model for Indigenous education will deliver results for even more students with the announcement that BHP will make a fresh $1 million donation and continue to support the organisation as a foundation partner.
"Our ambition is to transform Indigenous education, and this incredible support will help keep us on that path, Studio Schools Australia Chair Jennifer Westacott said.
"A $1 million contribution will help deliver a multi-function sports pavilion at Yiramalay school and the establishment of landmark Indigenous Education Research Centre (IERC) at Bandilngan (Windjana) Gorge.
"BHP joins the federal government as key backers of the Studio Schools of Australia project, which is already working at the Yiramalay school in the Kimberley.
BHP's support, announced alongside Prime Minister Albanese at the Garma Festival today, demonstrates corporate Australia's commitment to working with Indigenous communities to deliver real, genuine, and lasting change.
BHP's Head of Indigenous Engagement, Allan James, said: "Studio Schools' approach of on country learning that considers traditional language and culture, together with the broader Australian curriculum, is a proven and successful educational model. It's good for students and their communities because it provides a more appropriate learning model in remote and very remote locations. BHP is proud to be a foundational partner in the establishment of a broader network of Studio Schools to support education and opportunities for remote Indigenous communities and is peoples.
Ms Westacott said: "Through Studio Schools Australia we are bringing work and learning together to give students the best chance, and it's working. This is a game changer for Northern Australia.
"Year 12 attainment remains shamefully low in remote and very remote communities in any state.
"Based on the successful Yiramalay model in the Kimberley, the Studio Schools system achieves 90 per cent attendance levels and sees 80 per cent of students going onto employment and further education. BHP's support brings replicating these results across Northern Australia a step closer."
