Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, said he is thrilled that 15 remote schools in his electorate will benefit from a new Federal Government initiative which encourages teachers to work in areas classified as ‘very remote’.
Mr Coulton said the Government will waive all or part of the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debt for teachers who work at one of the schools for four years or more.
“I am thrilled that 15 schools in my electorate qualify as being in very remote locations under this program, and therefore stand to benefit,” Mr Coulton said.
“This program will help us to retain quality teachers in these 15 schools over the long-term, meaning they can build a strong connection with their students and the wider community.
“We know that improving the quality of teachers is one of the best ways to improve student outcomes.
“If teachers are prepared to make the long-term commitment to one of these fantastic schools, they will be rewarded.”
The schools include:
- Brewarrina Central School
- Currawah Aboriginal Education Centre, Gongolgon
- Enngonia Public School
- Goodooga Central School
- Ivanhoe Central School
- Koinonia Christian Academy
- Louth Public School
- Menindee Central School
- St Patrick’s School, Brewarrina
- St Therese’s Community Primary School, Wilcannia
- Tibooburra Outback Public School
- Wanaaring Public School
- Weilmoringle Public School
- White Cliffs Public School
- Wilcannia Central School
The Coalition Government has invested a record $310.3 billion in school funding for state schools, Catholic schools and Independent schools.
Photo Caption: Member for Parkes Mark Coulton with students and staff at Brewarrina Central School late last year.