11. Education
As outlined above, CAYLUS is of the opinion that a well run and resourced youth development program in each remote community could have a positive effect on educational outcomes over time – see attached Youth Program Needs in The CAYLUS Service Area submission for more detailed information and costings. The proposed programs would improve attendance at existing schools, and also provide educational opportunities for those who will not attend school.
A number of communities have implemented policies that require attendance at school for access to specific recreational opportunities with good effect – a “yes school, yes pool” approach. This has been effective in a number of locations, but only when extensive consultation has been undertaken and community support is in place. The school has to be part of this consultation process as well, as often remote schools are under-resourced and could not operate effectively if all the youth of the community did attend. The NT Education Department has had a policy of reducing teachers at a remote school when attendance drops. This means schools capacity to provide a stimulating environment is reduced when it should be being increased.
Remote schools need experienced English as a second language (ESL) teachers to be able to provide an education to youth who do not speak English as a first, or even second language. Perhaps the NTER could look at encouraging such teachers to spend some time in the remote schools, possibly on a rotational basis the way some Health Services use doctors. This would not require such a high level of commitment from the teachers, but would bring vital skills into the region that could make a real difference to educational outcomes.
Similarly, structured university student volunteer programs could provide tutoring and other services in the remote communities, and possibly develop a workforce for the future. We understand Macquarie Uni is making community service compulsory from next year for all undergraduate students. These schemes have great potential, and we have seen them operate very well in the region in a piecemeal fashion over the last five years.