A La Trobe University expert is available to discuss the release of the final report from the Inquiry into the State Education System in Victoria.
The report, tabled in the Victorian Parliament late on Tuesday, made a series of recommendations including the introduction of a 40-word mandatory phonics test for all grade 1 students; that the curriculum be reviewed to remove overcrowding; and that the government set measurable goals for its $1.2 billion Small Group Tutoring program.
La Trobe University made a submission and presented evidence to the inquiry, calling for a greater focus on explicit instruction and evidence-based learning to lift the standard of education in Victoria.
Dr Nathaniel Swain is available to speak to media on the final report and what needs to be done to improve the state of education in Victoria.
Dr Swain can address recommendations that the Department of Education:
- Update the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model, which is underway and represents a significant move towards more explicit and responsive teaching;
- Set a long-term target that 90 per cent of students reach proficiency in reading and numeracy on NAPLAN;
- Set a target for 90 per cent of students to reach the expected level in phonics checks by the end of year 2;
- Develop and provide template lesson plans and other material to support teachers develop curriculum;
- Review its advice on the Tutor Learning Initiative to ensure it aligns with best practice and the mandates on phonics and explicit instruction in literacy, and delivers multi-tiered systems of support.
Contact details:
To arrange an interview with Dr Swain, please contact Robyn Grace, senior manager of media and communications, on [email protected] or (0420) 826 595.
