Children in Aurukun will return to school next week, as the Department of Education is set to implement all 27 recommendations from its review of the Cape York school.
Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk said the recommendations would improve educational outcomes and access to schooling for children in the community.
The changes include a strengthening of the Department’s support for day-to-day operation of the school, year seven and eight studies being made available in Aurukun and the development of a first language curriculum to support transition in the early years.
Major upgrades include increased security in teacher housing and eight additional security staff deployed within the community.
A full complement of teaching staff, including Principal Scott Fatnowna, will return for Term 3 – along with a full-time guidance officer.
Speaking Brisbane, the Cape York Institute’s Noel Pearson described the review as a “hodge podge”, saying the report on education is “too narrow” without a review into law and order in the community.
More than 200 parents, teachers, students and Wik elders were interviewed as part of the review.
Education minister Kate Jones said the review found the Aurukun community wanted a greater say in the school.
“We will work with parents and community leaders to ensure they are more involved in the school, particularly with the language and culture program,” she said.
