Member for Roe Peter Rundle has welcomed the recent announcement that the Great Southern Middle School has secured funding to begin a study into education across the region.
The study will explore educational issues in the local area, examine the demand for a new non-government regional middle school campus in Katanning, and deliver recommendations to build capacity in existing schools, including recommendations for local government strategic planning and decision making.
Funding has been provided through the Great Southern Development Commission, the Shire of Katanning and the Katanning Regional Business Association.
Mr Rundle said he was pleased to see further research being done into educational issues across the region, and congratulated Natalie Nicholson and the Great Southern Middle School Committee for their hard work in securing this funding.
“Providing quality education for our children is of the upmost importance, and this survey will identify opportunities for improvement within our region,” Mr Rundle said.
“I’m passionate about regional education, and about ensuring that parents are presented with quality educational options that allow them to remain in regional communities.”
The scoping study has stemmed from a 2016-17 online survey undertaken by the Shire of Katanning, which identified that 79% of respondents would consider using a new non-government middle school in Katanning.
Mr Rundle said these options had to be investigated, to stem the flow of families leaving Katanning so their children can attend schools either in Perth or other major centres.
“Our community is suffering, as families either leave entirely, or divide their time between Katanning and the city, so their children can attend school in Perth, and providing alternative education options will help keep residents in our community, which in turn supports Katanning’s economy,” Mr Rundle said.
“The Nationals WA know that quality education opportunities is a key pillar for prospering regional communities, and invested $104 million in regional education through Royalties for Regions.”
Findings from the report are expected to be presented in September.
ENDS.
For more information on the study contact Natalie Nicholson, Great Southern Middle School Committee, nat.nicholson@hotmail.com
For media enquires contact Tori Castledine on 9071 6555 or tori.castledine@mp.wa.gov.au
