The South Australian government decided to invest $48.3 million into a program called Tailored Learning. The program caters to disengaged secondary students from Year 8 up to age 21, as the students face problems, such as depression, unstable housing, family problems, addiction, and parenting responsibilities.
Building on the success of the pilot operation conducted in 12 public high schools, this state program will strengthen in-school support for vulnerable students, supporting students to overcome barriers to schooling and re-engagement in learning. Tailored Learning is a follow on to the Flexible Learning Options (FLO) program established in 2007, and represents a new approach that addresses some of the limitations inherent in the FLO model.
Blair Boyer, Minister for Education, Training and Skills, said “Teach young people what they need to know in the way that works best for them. This funding is a critical step forward in allowing every young person to benefit from education tailored to their needs.”
This new model fortifies the capability of schools to target support; it continues to focus on holistic learning environments where pupils are still connected with their peers and teachers. Indeed, this new model responds to a call by a 2020 review on student suspensions, exclusions, and expulsions, in which it argued that the previous FLO model tended to further alienate pupils from engagement.
At present, 4,360 students are participating in the FLO program in 85 schools, but many schools do not receive the same benevolent assistance. Tailored Learning will ensure each secondary school has the opportunity to provide these enhanced resources annually, meeting the diverse needs of the students all across the state.
Kirsty Amos, Parafield Gardens High School headmaster pointed out that such an initiative will improve relations among students and schools since mainstreaming education would not suit everyone. “This initiative offers us the flexibility needed to meet the complex needs of young people, and schools can employ more trained staff to support these youth,” she said.
The core of the program will be an aid to reveal the specific learning barriers of the individual and to determine how much engagement a student will have. In partnership with educators, every student will establish a tailored learning plan custom-designed to his or her needs and may include part-time or full-time studies, vocational courses, online learning, work placements, and wellness programs.
The investment will fund further additional staffing and resources over the next three years, ensuring continuous monitoring of student progress and engagement. Early trials have shown promising results, including better attendance and re-engagement by students, giving promise to this monumental investment in education.
