Two More Local Schools Awarded Independent Public School Status
 

The most recent announcement of new Independent Public Schools (IPS) show families and communities In Jandakot are wholeheartedly backing schools in their bid to have more authority to make decisions best suited to their students needs.

Aubin Grove Primary School will commence as an Independent Public School in 2012, while Atwell Primary School will begin in 2013.

“We now have five schools in our electorate freed to set their own directions – all with the support of families and communities who are seeing the benefits for their children,” Joe Francis, Member for Jandakot, said.

“Over the last three years, 40 per cent of all schools in this state have been backed by their communities to submit an application, for IPS status.

“This government’s policy to empower school communities is one of the most successful reforms in WA education over the past 30 years.”

In total 207 schools have now been selected to be part of the initiative.
 

“Importantly, through school boards, parents are empowered to have a greater say in how their children are educated,” Mr Francis said.

“Independent Public School principals themselves are saying they would never return to the way things were previously,” Mr Francis said.

“Instead of being dictated to by the bureaucracy, they are able to work more closely with parents, communities and others with expertise to provide additional help for those students who need it, or further challenge talented students.

“By working more closely with their communities and others with expertise, principals can tailor programs and resources to benefit their unique student body.”

A key aspect which sets this policy apart from many others around the world is the fact that this is an opt-in initiative. In addition, all staff continue to be employed by the Department of Education under industrial agreements and schools must adhere to legislative requirements.