The NSW Nationals in the state government have secured free tutoring for students in 2021 thanks to a landmark $337 million program as part of the NSW 2020-2021 Budget.
This program will provide support for students after a disruptive school year, NSW Nationals Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said.
The NSW Nationals in the state government will employ up to 5500 additional staff to deliver small-group tuition at every NSW government school, as well as non-government schools with the most significant levels of need.
“I’m thrilled to see the government is committed to ensuring students’ educational outcomes continue to improve in 2021,” Mr Singh said.
“2020 has been a tough year, particularly for our students and teachers. Our schools have done an incredible job despite the many challenges we have faced, including several weeks of remote learning due to COVID-19.
“We understand that for some students, their learning stagnated during the pandemic – and tuition in small groups will help re-engage these students in their education.”
NSW Nationals Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said the program will not only support students, it will also provide employment opportunities for qualified teachers and university tutors who may be short on work.
“We have many enthusiastic young teachers starting their careers, and we also have experienced teachers who are now retired who can help support our students next year,” Ms Mitchell said.
“We will also make sure rural and remote schools can access the expert additional staff members they need to implement the program successfully.”
The COVID intensive learning support program is the latest measure in the NSW Nationals in the state government’s strategy to improve literacy and numeracy outcomes and ensure that every school and every student can improve every year.
People interested in taking part can register at https://www.teach.nsw.edu.au/find-teaching-jobs/covid-learning-support-program.
