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South West schools join Independent Public School list

Ailish DelaneyBunbury Herald

Several State schools across the South West are celebrating a new achievement of being among the 29 successful applicants to operate as Independent Public Schools from semester two.

Dardanup and Allanson primary schools are two of the 14 regional schools included in last month’s Independent Public Schools announcement.

The change will give the schools more autonomy over decision-making and provide an opportunity to develop school and community partnerships.

Dardanup Primary School principal Darryl Owen said he was excited about the school’s new Independent Public School status.

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“It is a validation of the work that we’ve been doing at this school and to reach that level of being recognised is good for the staff and the community,” Mr Owen said.

Moving forward means that we are able to make decisions at local level that will have the biggest impact on our student outcomes.

Darryl Owen

“It gives us that opportunity to build up some strong partnerships with local organisations that’s gonna help with our kids — local businesses and that type of thing.”

Schools in the shires of Harvey and Waroona were also announced as new Independent Public Schools — Brunswick Junction, Harvey, Yarloop primary schools and Waroona District High School.

Applying to become an Independent Public School is a decision made by the schools in consultation with the local community.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said she was pleased schools across the State — spanning metropolitan areas and the Goldfields, Kimberley, Mid West, South West and Wheatbelt — were represented in the latest announcement.

The Independent Public School program draws on the strong relationships schools have with their local communities and gives them the autonomy to make decisions that best suit their students, staff and families.

Sue Ellery

The new announcement brings the total number of Independent Public Schools to 610.

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