Wednesday, 5 March 2025

Department of Education

The Education State: Excellence in Every Classroom

Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (17:39): I rise to make a contribution on an important document that outlines a vision for the future of education in Victoria, The Education State: Excellence in Every Classroom, authored by the Department of Education. This report reflects on our commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to a world-class education. This report presents a clear and ambitious vision, one that aspires to excellence in every Victorian classroom, and at its core is the recognition that great education starts with great teaching. Victoria has long been a national leader in literacy and numeracy outcomes, and the Allan Labor government continues to invest in evidence-based teaching practices to ensure our students develop foundational skills. Professional learning communities are providing teachers with valuable opportunities to collaborate and refine their craft, ensuring that the best teaching methods are in every classroom. However, excellence in education is about more than just academic achievement. Every student must feel safe, included and supported to thrive. That is why the government has made significant investments in student wellbeing, including ensuring every government secondary school has access to a dedicated mental health practitioner. We know that when students feel supported, respected and valued they are better equipped to engage in learning and achieve their full potential.

One of the key challenges we continue to address is engaging in secondary education. Too many students disengage from traditional schooling because it does not align with their interests, skills or career aspirations. That is why we have introduced the VCE vocational major, an important reform that allows students to explore vocational pathways while still achieving a senior secondary qualification. By giving students the flexibility to pursue academic and practical learning side by side, we are ensuring that students leave school job ready and prepared for the future. Our investment in tech schools is also making a real difference, giving students hands-on experience in STEM industries and equipping them with the skills needed for emerging jobs in rapidly evolving economies.

At the heart of our education system are our teachers, and we must continue to invest in them. We know that attracting and retaining high-quality educators is essential, which is why we have introduced scholarships, professional development programs and initiatives to reduce the administrative burdens that often take teachers away from what they do best, which is teaching. Our commitment to supporting teachers is a commitment to lifting student outcomes across the state.

Of course education does not exist in isolation from the wider community. Schools are more than just places of learning. They are hubs of connection, support and opportunity. That is why we have undertaken the largest school building program in Australia, delivering 121 new schools since 2017. This includes the Wirrigirri Primary School in the north-west of the North-Eastern Metropolitan Region. Every Victorian community deserves access to high-quality educational facilities, and we are ensuring that families, no matter where they live, have access to modern, well-resourced schools.

This report is more than just a statement of intent. It is a road map for the future of education in Victoria. It reflects our shared aspiration to create a system that not only delivers academic excellence but also nurtures, supports and empowers every student to thrive. The work we do today will shape the opportunities available to future generations, and it is imperative that we remain committed to delivering the best possible education for every Victorian child. As we move forward, let us continue to work together – students, parents, educators and community members – to build an education system that meets the needs of today and prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow. The future of Victoria depends on the strength of our education system. As we all know, education and public education changes lives, but this report sets out a clear path to achieving excellence in every classroom.