[lg policy] Australia: English as an Additional Language Policy to Improve Literacy Outcomes

[Harold Schiffman]

English as an Additional Language Policy to Improve Literacy Outcomes

Education and Training Minister Chris Burns today released the draft
Literacy Framework for Students learning English as an Additional
Language. Dr Burns said the draft policy is the result of areview of
the policy relating to the teaching of English literacy and numeracy
during the first four hours of each school day. The draft policy also
provides practical guidelines for all schools that cater for students
who have English as a second or additional language. This includes
both Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners.

“The Territory Government is committed to giving every child the best
opportunity for a good education,” Dr Burns said. “For children to
have the best chance in life, they need to go to school every day and
be able to read and write in English so they can get jobs, learn a
trade or go on to tertiary education.

“I believe this is my primary responsibility as the Minister for
Education and government is committed to this policy intent. “The
policy however has been presented in a draft format to allow schools
and their communities to provide feedback over the next two months.

“The revised and expanded policy has been informed by work undertaken
by the Menzies School of Health Research on Aboriginal students with
home languages other than English. “Implementation issues will differ
from school to school and the consultation period will allow for
constructive feedback and discussion. Dr Burns said he acknowledges
there is still much debate around instructing children for whom
English is a second or additional language.

“The Territory Government will continue to support the use of home
language and culture as a crucial framework to support teaching and
learning programs.” “We are also actively encouraging our schools
communities to use the school facilities and resources to promote and
grow additional home language and culture programs,” Dr Burns said.



Related files:
Burns 310811 English Policy FINAL.pdf ( 267.05 kb )

http://www.newsroom.nt.gov.au/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewRelease&id=8549&d=5

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