❓ A member of parliament raises concerns about teacher shortages and stress at Geraldton Senior College. The Premier acknowledges challenges but highlights improvements in education in Geraldton and commits to providing support.
AnsweredQoN 646Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
GERALDTON SENIOR COLLEGE - TEACHER SHORTAGES
Given that Geraldton Senior College is suffering from continuing teacher shortages and is unable to find teachers to fill key positions, I ask - (1) Will the Premier admit that the obligation to provide the maximum number of courses and the expectation to undertake extra duties and deliver additional classes have led to excessive stress on teachers? (2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER
Given that Geraldton Senior College is suffering from continuing teacher shortages and is unable to find teachers to fill key positions, I ask - (1) Will the Premier admit that the obligation to provide the maximum number of courses and the expectation to undertake extra duties and deliver additional classes have led to excessive stress on teachers? (2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(1) Will the Premier admit that the obligation to provide the maximum number of courses and the expectation to undertake extra duties and deliver additional classes have led to excessive stress on teachers? (2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(1) Will the Premier admit that the obligation to provide the maximum number of courses and the expectation to undertake extra duties and deliver additional classes have led to excessive stress on teachers? (2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(2) Will he admit that the increased responsibility for accommodating a greater number of students due to the raising of the school leaving age without additional resources has led to excessive stress on teachers? (3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(3) Will he admit that the requirement to supervise all physical education pathways is leading to excessive stress being placed on teachers? (4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(4) What does the Premier intend to do to rectify the unacceptable situation of teacher stress? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
I thank the member for Greenough for the question. In case he does not get the call to ask me another one, I hope things turn out well on the weekend. Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Several members interjected. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER : He knows exactly what I am talking about. The member will appreciate that I am no longer the minister and it might have been better for him to address the question to the minister assisting the minister in the other house. Never mind! I have been provided with this information, which I will deliver to the member. Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr T.R. Sprigg interjected. The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
The SPEAKER : Order, member for Murdoch. Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER : I am pretty sure it was 15! I have been provided with the following information - Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Geraldton Senior College has been able to maintain its existing full-time equivalent allocation. There have been challenges in areas such as drama, dance and students’ services due to illness and leave, but replacement teachers have filled those roles. (1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(1) As mentioned, there have been challenges in some areas of staff replacement. However, the FTE has been maintained by replacement with qualified teachers who have sustained the teaching program. (2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(2) Additional resourcing has been provided to schools to accommodate the increased number of students. (3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(3) To provide relevant and diverse programs, particularly in community-based programs, the school is continually reviewing and monitoring the delivery of courses. (4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
(4) The Department of Education and Training has acknowledged that there needs to be improved system support and in consultation with the school will identify appropriate avenues for consideration. I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
I thank the member for that question about Geraldton Senior College. The principal is Garry Simmons who prior to that was at Dongara. He is a very good principal. If there is a need for additional support, we will do everything we can to ensure that we provide the support that is required because that college is part of one of the great renaissance experiences of education in Western Australia. Everybody with whom I have spoken in Geraldton - supporters of the government or not - acknowledges that the transformation of education in Geraldton in the past five and a half years has been nothing short of astounding when compared with what it was like when we took over. There was a well-intentioned, but I believe a very unsuccessful, attempt to change the school model, which delivered quite disastrous outcomes that had a very negative effect on, not only education, but also on the entire Geraldton region. The reparation of that problem has taken some time but it is now under way. Enormous additional physical infrastructure has gone into it, there are new programs, including the Aboriginal football program to get the boys engaged at the school and the netball program to get the girls engaged at the school, and John Willcock College has been restored as a stand-alone institution, which was roundly applauded by the community. Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
Member for Greenough, I am serious that we will do everything we can to make sure that the staff at the school are properly supported. We know that there are pressures. The population has grown because of the broader good that the government has delivered through its policies in Geraldton. I thank the member for bringing the matter to my attention.
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