- $7.1 million to benefit WA school students in isolated, regional and remote locations
- Additional funding will support the School of Isolated and Distance Education to maintain a high-quality service as demand for the online learning service continues to grow
- Part of Cook Government's commitment to quality regional education
The Cook Government has today announced a $7.1 million funding boost for the Department of Education's School of Isolated and Distance Education (SIDE).
The additional investment in 2024 will enable SIDE to continue to deliver a high-quality, inclusive and culturally responsive education program for young people who are living in isolated, regional or remote locations.
SIDE was established in 1918 to educate primary students in the 'outback' via correspondence. Over the years, it has transformed into an online model using digital technologies that caters to students from Kindergarten to Year 12.
Demand for the online learning service continues to grow, particularly among students outside of major cities.
This increase in resourcing will ensure SIDE can maintain appropriate student-to-teacher ratios.
More information about the School of Isolated and Distance Education can be found here.
Comments attributed to Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"The School of Isolated and Distance Education is an important part of Western Australia's history that continues to offer an integral service for families in regional and remote areas.
"We're committed to ensuring that every student in WA has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
"This additional investment will ensure SIDE is appropriately resourced, and able to provide a range of long-term learning, social and welfare benefits for students, including those who are more vulnerable."
