Primary priorities are all about our kids

SOME of our most experienced primary school principals and educators are working behind-the-scenes to ensure local children have access to a highquality, integrated and inclusive journey from Foundation to Year 6.

Working groups are now implementing the key goals of Stage Three of the Shepparton Education Plan (SEP), which aims to improve education outcomes in our 28 Greater Shepparton primary schools.

“Greater Shepparton Secondary College has been the major capital investment in the education plan and has the highest profile,” the Department of Education and Training’s Goulburn Area executive director, Sharon Hensgen-Smith, said. “Yet the work underway to lift secondary school outcomes is Stage One of four stages to improve education outcomes, from pre-school to entering the workforce.” Stage Two focuses on Early Years and includes the new Mooroopna Family and Children’s Centre and Stage Four aims at improving access to post-secondary education and career pathways.

“There is no capital works project for Stage Three but there are a great many dedicated people working to improve our primary school outcomes,” Sharon said.

Stage Three recognises that our primary schools

Greater Shepparton Secondary College has

been the major capital WORKING HARD BEHIND THE SCENES...Kialla West Primary school principal, Wes Teague with grade two students James Wood and Angelina Tassoni. Photo: Kelly Carmody investment in the have committed and talented teachers and strong education plan and has the highest profile programs, yet there is a need to improve education, health and wellbeing outcomes in Greater Shepparton, SEP project manager Jenni Gibson is coordinating five working groups tasked with delivering equity and excellence across our primary schools. “Each group comprises a team of experienced and well-known educators, who know the needs of our schools and know the needs of our kids,” Jenni said. Development of the SEP began in 2017 with the aim of lifting student outcomes across the city over 10 years. There are eight such place-based plans in Victoria – with the Shepparton plan being the largest. You can access the overview of each of the plan’s four stages here: www.vic.gov.au/education-plans

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ART is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures and abilities, and allows us to consider the world from a new perspective. SAM, through art, acts as a conduit for conversation and connection; a meeting place for all, where everyone can partake in a meaningful experience when considering the ideas behind the incredible works that ll our galleries.

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