A virtual classroom is set to livestream specialist subjects to more than 4000 Queensland students this year.
State Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the new Queensland Virtual Academy would expand the opportunities for regional and rural students.
Minister Langbroek said the program, which would be backed by a $12 million investment this year, removed the boundaries faced by regional and rural students whose schools did not offer the specialist subjects needed for them to pursue their chosen career.
“Queensland Virtual Academy is the State’s biggest classroom providing innovative learning opportunities to more than 4000 students in 365 state schools,” he said.
Minister Langbroek said programs on offer through the academy included Specialist Mathematics, Senior Physics, Japanese and Senior Psychology.
“STEM enrichment programs are also on offer for students across Years 5-9 with an aptitude for STEM.”
He said not only would the academy help children pursue their passions, but it helped to create a pipeline of skilled and talented graduates in regional communities.
Queensland Secondary Principals’ Association President Mark Breckenridge said the program had enormous potential to scale up offerings and broaden learning opportunities for students.
“Secondary schools have been actively involved in piloting this much needed initiative,” Mr Breckenridge said.
“The QVA is a model that provides limitless virtual opportunities, while reinforcing the importance of students being enrolled in their local state school.”
