Capability Development Unit expansion

Previous Updates

December 2006

The unit is currently providing support to five remote schools: Ntaria, Papunya, Ampiliwatja, Yuendumu, and Alekarenge. A generic programming approach is being implemented across these schools which was developed in conjunction with Group Schools East and is being networked with Barkly Group School and Group Schools West.

Assistance is also being provided through facilitation of a "What Works" workshop for urban schools in Alice Springs to address ‘urban drift’ challenges.

Work on a restructure of Group Schools in Central Australia continues with a public consultation phase involving communities, school staff and interested parties. Support has been very positive and work is now focusing on what the new structure will look like.

August 2006

The Unit commenced operation in Central Australia in April 2005. The current focus is to provide effective support to schools in order to improve student outcomes as well as increase attendance and retention.

Specific projects in 2006 include:

• audit, development and management of plans to restructure identified remote schools
• supporting the establishment of middle years structures and programs in remote schools
• professional development for urban teachers to assist the transition of remote Indigenous students into mainstream schooling
• working with urban schools to develop pathways for “urban drift” clientele
• extensive involvement in supporting Collaborative Trial Sites
• working with Charles Darwin University and Alice Springs schools to support practice teaching for local student teachers
• supporting Indigenous staff in remote and urban schools context.

January 2006

Capability Development Unit has been expanded into Central Australia. Ian Hopwood has been appointed to head-up the Central Australia Capability Development Unit based in the Alice Springs DEET Office. This has allowed for support, mentorship and direction to be given to identified schools in Central Australia that are facing particular challenges.

April 2005

Congratulations to Ian Hopwood who will be heading up the Central Australia Capability Development Unit.

The expansion of the Capability Development Unit initiative will allow for support and direction to be given to identified schools in the south that are facing particular challenges.

Ian will be based in the Alice Springs office working with schools in the south offering support, mentorship and direction.

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