❓ A WA parliamentary question addresses the Department of Education and Training's policy on providing lockers to students, funding availability, awareness of health issues related to heavy backpacks, and the cost of lockers. The response indicates lockers are not standard, and schools manage backpack weight through other means.
AnsweredQoN 2914Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
(1) What is the Department of Education and Training’s policy on the provision of lockers to students in both primary and secondary schools?
(2) Is funding available for Government schools to purchase lockers for use by students?
(3) Is the department aware of studies showing that many students suffer back and other problems as a result of being forced to carry heavy backpacks of books from home to school and back and from class to class?
(4) Are suppliers or manufacturers of lockers available in Western Australia and, if yes, what is the indicative cost of a locker, ordered in large numbers for supply to a Government school?
(2) Is funding available for Government schools to purchase lockers for use by students?
(3) Is the department aware of studies showing that many students suffer back and other problems as a result of being forced to carry heavy backpacks of books from home to school and back and from class to class?
(4) Are suppliers or manufacturers of lockers available in Western Australia and, if yes, what is the indicative cost of a locker, ordered in large numbers for supply to a Government school?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
18 August 2004
Responded by
Minister for Education and Training
Response time
76 days
1. The Department of Education and Training does not provide lockers at primary schools. Primary students are based in classrooms or blocks, with little need to carry books or gear around the school. Previously, high schools were provided with lockers, however many schools have subsequently removed them due to vandalism and bullying problems. New schools are not automatically provided with lockers, although this becomes a school-based decision, and may be included if deemed to be a priority and the cost fits within the project budget.
2. Yes, through their annual minor works funds.
3. Schools are advised to encourage students to manage the weight they carry by:
a. Minimising the amount of books and gear carried between school and home to only essential items required for each day.
b. Using lightweight and correct-fitting backpacks.
c. In extreme cases using trolleys to transport gear.
d. Providing students with information through the health education curriculum regarding correct posture and recommendations for lifting and carrying.
4. Yes, approximately $150 per locker.
2. Yes, through their annual minor works funds.
3. Schools are advised to encourage students to manage the weight they carry by:
a. Minimising the amount of books and gear carried between school and home to only essential items required for each day.
b. Using lightweight and correct-fitting backpacks.
c. In extreme cases using trolleys to transport gear.
d. Providing students with information through the health education curriculum regarding correct posture and recommendations for lifting and carrying.
4. Yes, approximately $150 per locker.
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