The successful multimillion dollar Pilbara Education Partnership between the State Government and BHP will continue to benefit local students until 2023.
This is the largest corporate and government partnership for the delivery of a public education program in regional Western Australia.
A new commitment has been made by BHP to build on the success of the previous agreement and continue to support schools and students in the Pilbara to improve education opportunities.
Under the new $6.6 million partnership, $3 million will be focused on a community-based approach to the Early Years to better prepare children for starting school. This will include ensuring families have access to important services and early intervention to address areas of concern.
This focus will support children from birth to eight years, and will monitor children in the Pilbara to make sure they are achieving developmental milestones to be successful learners.
More than $3 million will also be invested to provide students with clear pathways from primary to secondary school and into training, further study and employment.
The strategy is focused on building on partnerships with training providers such as TAFE, and Registered Training Organisations, industry and the local community to prepare young people for life beyond school.
Students from Years 7 to 10 will have new opportunities to experience life in the workplace and gain valuable skills for employment, further training or further study, by participating in job trials, work experience and community service.
Schools in Hedland and Newman, along with Onslow Primary School, Jigalong Remote Community School, Marble Bar Primary School, Nullagine Primary School and Yandeyarra Remote Community School, will all be supported by the partnership.
Source: WA Government