The Queensland Government has today committed to a permanent Behaviour Boost funding injection of $45 million each year for state schools to implement behaviour management strategies.
Six months on from the introduction of the successful Behaviour Boost resource, the Government says schools are reporting positive changes in behaviour and improvements in their classrooms.
Behaviour Boost will be bolstered by an additional $2.5 million to provide state schools with up to $2,000 grants to support the professional development of school-based staff with key behaviour management responsibilities.
School leaders choose how best to use their Behaviour Boost allocation, which can include engaging school-based behaviour specialists, who play a vital role in building the capability of their colleagues to respond effectively to student behaviour.
Minister for Education, John-Paul Langbroek said teachers and parents had found the new funding a game changer.
“We are delivering a fresh start for Queensland schools, and the role of behaviour specialists, and supporting resources, are invaluable in establishing expectations and addressing behaviour issues quickly and effectively,” Minister Langbroek said.
“Safer classrooms give all students the best opportunity to learn.
“We know teachers need this support on an ongoing basis and that’s why we’re proud to deliver it permanently.
“We’re six months on from the start of our Behaviour Boost resourcing and it’s clear the tables are starting to turn after a decade of Labor neglect.
“This is just one of the ways we’re delivering a fresh start for schools, with less red tape for teachers, more focus on the basics with phonics and numeracy checks, and our five-point plan to tackle bullying.”
Humpybong State School Principal, Pamela Fields said that since appointing a school-based officer who is focused on student engagement and providing in-classroom guidance and targeted training for the school’s teaching staff, student behaviour and academic performance has improved significantly.
“Providing an opportunity for guidance by an officer with this expertise has given our staff confidence to address behaviour issues proactively and positively, with a range of tools and strategies to keep students engaged and minimise disruption for other students,” Ms Fields said.
