IPS (Independent Public School) update Durack School

DURACK PRIMARY SCHOOL: An Independent Public School (IPS)

Durack Primary School became an Independent Public School following a rigorous selection process late in 2015

Independent Public Schools are being introduced in the Territory as part of greater school autonomy. This is a joint initiative by the Northern Territory and Australian Governments, to give school communities a greater say in the way schools are administered and education programs delivered.

IPS schools will continue to be part of the public school system and therefore will work to the same legislative and industrial frameworks as all schools. However they will have greater autonomy to work flexibility to deliver their services needed for their school community in the ways they need.

For example, they will have greater flexibility to recruit staff, and they will have different governance arrangements that reflect their direct accountability to the Chief Executive.

Durack Primary was chosen as an IPS because we demonstrated a capacity for innovation and leadership. We will determine what is right for us and remove barriers that impact the way we can operate.

To date at Durack, we have initiated a number of programs to enhance our educational delivery

These include:

• Introduction of Japanese language programs
• Extension programs for identified students.
• Expanded our Physical Education programs by introducing golf and tennis tuition
• Before School Care for students.
• New school website.
• Employment of an administrative support assistant to assist with the administrative load in relation to IPS initiatives.

In addition there are a number of initiatives that are in the planning stages which we will keep parents informed of.

The next step for the current School Council is to transition to form a School Board.

As the current School Council Chairperson, I will keep parents and stakeholders informed of this process via the weekly newsletter and our school web-site.

Wally Mauger

School Council Chairperson