Canowindra public schools are set to receive additional funding for 2015, with a combined increase of $66,306 from 2014.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The recent state government will see additional money stemming from $97 million in Gonski funding benefit schools across NSW.
The funding is part of $664 million delivered to schools in 2015 through the needs-based Resource Allocation Model (RAM), which allocates funding according to the background of students at each school.
Next year Canowindra High School will receive an increase of $24,000, while Canowindra Public School will receive an extra $63,906.
The RAM allocates extra money to schools with low socio-economic backgrounds, that are remote or isolated, those who have low-level disability, are still developing their English language skills or are Aboriginal.
Principal at Canowindra High School, Neryle Smurthwaite said the funds are most welcome.
“It’s a huge help that will really allow us to provide our students with different programs for their individual needs,” she said.
“It allows us to continue with extra programs and can contribute to resources, professional learning and improved overall learning outcomes for our students.”
Ms Smurthwaite said that unlike previous funding models, the RAM program allows each school flexibility and the autonomy to decide where the funds should be spent.
“Funding is divided into socioeconomic, disability and Aboriginality so it’s looked at within those contexts but overall we have to choice of how to spend it which means we can use it more effectively for our school,” she said.
Ms Smurthwaite highlighted the importance of keeping parents and carers informed, with a community consultation being held at Canowindra High School last night.
Member for Orange, Andrew Gee, said the idea of the RAM funding is that the money goes where it is needed.
“It’s what NSW public schools have wanted- a significant increase in funding guaranteed into the future, with the greatest benefits flowing to school and students with the greatest need,” Mr Gee said.
“The core of the government’s Local Schools, Local Decisions reforms is to put decision making about students and school communities with the people who know them best - the principals, school staff and parents.”
