Every chance to learn: ACT curriculum framework

Providing quality schooling is a high priority for the ACT Labor Government. This new curriculum framework, Every chance to learn, is an exciting and historic development in ACT school education – one that will ensure we provide the very best teaching and learning for our students.

From 2008, all ACT schools will use this framework to plan what they teach in their school curriculum from preschool to year 10.

The new framework states clearly what the ACT community believes is essential for all students to learn and what we expect all students to be able to do as a result of that learning. It lays the foundation for high curriculum standards in all ACT schools by identifying the essential content that should be taught to the children and young people of Canberra.

The title of the framework, Every chance to learn, came from students, who told us that they wanted their teachers to give them ‘every chance to learn’ the knowledge and skills that will best prepare them for life and work in the 21st century. With this new framework, all ACT students will be taught the knowledge, skills and values that are critical for their future as lifelong learners and as informed citizens.

Consultation has been a key feature of the four-year curriculum renewal process, led and informed by the Curriculum Renewal Taskforce and Curriculum Renewal Consultative Committee, both with broad professional and community representation. Many teachers, students, parents, academics and community members contributed to each phase of the framework’s development.

I commend the expertise and efforts of everyone involved in producing such a quality document and wish all ACT principals and teachers well, as they use this framework to maximise the learning outcomes for the students in their care.