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Monday, 23 May 2011
Page: 4249

Science Curriculum

Debate resumed on the motion by Mr Pyne:

That this House:

(1) acknowledges the effectiveness of programs initiated by the former Coalition Government such as 'Primary Connections' and 'Science By Doing', that support professional development for teachers to effectively engage primary and secondary school students on science curriculum;

(2) recognises the need for Australian Government support of teachers, allowing them to access the support and training they need to teach the new national curriculum in science;

(3) notes the:

(a) Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development evidence which indicates that science literacy in students is declining in Australia compared with other countries; and

(b) concern of the Australian Primary Schools Principals Association, that the Australian Government has not provided a funding commitment to the Australian Academy of Science beyond this financial year to continue the 'Primary Connections' and 'Science By Doing' programs; and

(4) calls on the Australian Government to make clear its funding commitment in relation to these programs which are vital to support teachers.