Tutoring program extended as students return to school

The NSW Government has announced the extension of the COVID Intensive Learning Support Program into next year, to help students catch up on any learning loss experienced due to COVID-19 lockdowns and learning from home.

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure, said that this announcement is fantastic news for local students and parents, as it focuses on providing targeted support to those who need it most.

“Our Government has always ensured that no matter where you live or what your circumstances may be, you can access world class educational resources and facilities,” Mr Coure said.

“As a father of two young boys, I know just how important it is for all students to have access to the support and assistance they need.”

Premier, Dominic Perrottet, said following the positive reception and uptake of the 2021 program, the NSW Government was committing an additional $383 million to continue to support students next year.

“We know our students are resilient but there is no doubt that 2021 has been a tough year, with many students learning from home for twice as long as last year,” Premier Perrottet said.

“Early insights from the ongoing evaluation of the program show that students are bouncing back thanks to the intensive tutoring delivered through the program, and we are committed to helping them do so again next year.”

Treasurer, Matt Kean, said the tutoring program, which has been delivered by educators in partnership with classroom teachers, had exceeded its employment goal.

“This program has employed more than 7,500 educators to date in government schools alone, providing employment opportunities right across the State,” Treasurer Kean said.

“Building on this success, the extension of the program will not only provide extra support for students to ensure their learning remains on track but also additional employment opportunities for our fantastic teachers and educators.”

Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, said the COVID Intensive Learning Support Program was first introduced in Term 1 this year to help students, who had fallen behind after last year’s disruptions, improve their core knowledge and skills.

“This program is based on research which demonstrates that small-group tuition is highly effective at getting students back on track,” Minister Mitchell said.

“Principals and teachers I have spoken with over the last few months have been unanimous in their support for the program in meeting their individual school and student needs.”

“Our additional investment for 2022 will continue the focus on literacy and numeracy and enable us to strengthen the provision of online tuition, ensuring greater accessibility to meet student need.”

The Department of Education will work with schools and key stakeholder groups during Term 4 to refine the program and ensure the greatest benefit is delivered for students who need it most.

More information will be provided by the Department of Education to schools during Term 4.