Tasmanian Labor is wishing all Tasmanian students and teachers the best as NAPLAN testing kicks off across the state this week.
The NAPLAN testing window has been brought forward this year, meaning results will be available to education authorities earlier in the year to inform school and system teaching and learning programs.
This is welcome news for an education system which has a lot of improving to do under the Rockliff Liberal Government.
Tasmania has some of the worst education outcomes in the country, with the Productivity Commission's Report on Government Services showing our state has the lowest proportion of students at or above the minimum standard for reading and numeracy across all age groups, except the Northern Territory.
It is now vital that teachers are given time for high quality professional learning and the in-class support they need to turn the tide following wage and conditions negotiations with the Government.
The NAPLAN testing window changes are an important milestone for our state's education system, which could lead to better access to information and improved student outcomes.
On the first day of NAPLAN assessments, it is extraordinary that Education Minister Roger Jaensch is missing in action with nothing to say about the benefits of these national changes.
Nothing is more important than a child's education, and it's beyond time that the State Government starts making this a priority, rather than focussing on things we don't need like a billion dollar stadium.
A future Labor Government will invest heavily in improving education outcomes for Tasmanians who have been left behind by the Liberals.
Josh Willie MLC
Shadow Minister for Education and Early Years
