The Queensland Government has passed a new bill to expand the Queensland Certificate of Education overseas, enabling non-state schools to partner with recognised overseas schools and expand their global reach.
The bill also recognises the role of re-entry and transition programs to help disengaged and at-risk students stay connected to education, which will assist in improving attendance, engagement and outcomes.
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the legislation will help Queensland’s education sector meet the needs of the community.
“Expanding the reach of the Queensland Certificate of Education overseas is an exciting opportunity,” said Minister Langbroek.
“It showcases our world-class education and qualification that opens doors to further education in Queensland. This builds on the existing success of the Department of Education International in delivering the Queensland Certificate of Education on the global stage.”
Mr Langbroek said the legislation gives formal recognition to re-entry and transition programs that are already delivering results – improving attendance, educational outcomes, behaviour, and reducing interactions with the youth justice system.
Other key changes in the bill include the enabling of improved regulatory responsiveness by the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board for the non-state schooling sector; clarifying the legislative status of education and training centres operating in youth detention centres and the Working with Children Check requirements for approved teachers working in these centres; and strengthening operational and governance arrangements for the Queensland College of Teachers.
