Tuesday, 7 March 2023

 Ryan SMITH (Warrandyte) (14:41): (58) My question is to the Minister for Education. Many members in this chamber would be well aware of the teacher shortage that is currently causing stress within our education system across the state. My own son, like many other students, has had classes cancelled as the school was unable to cover them with emergency relief teachers. Having any class cancelled due to a teacher shortage is a huge concern to any parent and student, more so should it be for the education minister. One of my principals has personally written to the Premier and minister outlining her request for the state’s principals to be more broadly consulted and included when dealing with the issues facing schools today. Principals and teachers have firsthand experience, with many having productive ideas and solutions to the various issues schools face. I would ask that the minister please meet with my local principals to hear of their experiences and challenges within the education system and adapt a broader consultation network rather than just listening to Labor-appointed bureaucrats.