Peter Chandler
Minister for Education
Girls’ engagement program implemented into seven Territory schools
17 July 2015
Seven Territory high schools will be provided with an engagement program aimed at supporting Indigenous female students to obtain Education and Training qualifications.
Minister for Education Peter Chandler said the girls’ engagement program is a key part of the Northern Territory Government’s A Share in the Future – Indigenous Education Strategy Implementation Plan 2015 – 2017.
“Similar to the Clontarf program for Indigenous boys, the new girl’s engagement program is tailored to reinforce engagement and attendance, implementing a system-wide approach with a focus on educational outcomes, health and wellbeing amongst Indigenous female students,” Mr Chandler said.
“The program will assist students to obtain a Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training and assist with their employment options beyond school.”
Stars Foundation Limited (Stars Foundation) has been selected as the provider of the new Indigenous girls’ engagement program.
Stars Foundation is a public company limited by guarantee. A board of directors has oversight of the management of the foundation and is headed by Chair Marion Scrymgour who is also the Chief Executive Officer, Wurli Wurlingjang Aboriginal Corporation.
“We would like to thank the NT Government for providing support to this very important program, which we believe will make a significant difference to young Aboriginal women in education and in preparing for adult life,” Ms Scrymgour said.
Stars Foundation will operate the new girls’ engagement program at Katherine High School, Dripstone Middle School, Sanderson Middle School, Nhulunbuy High School, Yirrkala School, Casuarina Senior College and Tennant Creek High School.
“The new girls’ engagement program as well as operating using funding from the Northern Territory Government will be complemented by a philanthropic investment by the Stars Foundation,” Mr Chandler said.
“It is expected that each program will be operational either in full or in part by the end of Term 3, 2015 with two commencing in Term 4.”
A total of $4.83M has been committed to the girls’ engagement program by the Northern Territory Government.
Media contact: Whittney Jago 0417 926 426