Student 'chippied' Hammer Home $100k

Student 'Chippies' Hammer Home $100k

Tasmanian Schools First State Award Recipient Announced

For Immediate Release
Friday, 23rd October 2009

Hobart's Claremont College has literally hammered and nailed its way to $100,000 in Schools First awards, thanks to its partnership with the Housing Industry Association (HIA).

The school's success, announced last night at a Schools First State Awards ceremony, acknowledges youthBUILD - the outstanding partnership it and several other Tasmanian schools have developed with the housing industry in an effort to encourage students to consider building apprentices.

Speaking from the awards ceremony, Schools First Head Jodi Cryan praised Claremont College for its outstanding achievement.

"At the very heart of Schools First is the belief that we can improve student outcomes through school community partnerships. Claremont's collaboration with HIA shows the impact of positive change for students by not only giving them hands-on vocational experience, but instilling in them a sense of pride and achievement as well as a work ethic that can be applied in a broader life sense," said Cryan.

"This is an exemplary partnership and demonstrates the impact that can be achieved when schools interact, engage and partner with their communities," said Cryan.

Brought to life by NAB in partnership with The Foundation for Young Australians and the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), Schools First is a three-year commitment by these organisations to recognise and promote excellence in school community partnerships.

Schools First is based on evidence that indicates strong school - community partnerships can make a significant difference to outcomes for young people, including increased skills and greater engagement with learning.

Claremont College, along with Gagebrook Primary, received a $50,000 Schools First local impact award earlier this month. Claremont's success at last night's awards ceremony has seen this figure grow to $100,000. The College is now in the running to win the Schools First national award, which will be awarded at least an additional $400,000.

Schools interested in learning more about Schools First and how they can get involved next year are encouraged to visit www.schoolsfirst.edu.au and register as a user. All of this year's winners are showcased on the website.

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To speak to a representative from Claremont College or Schools First, please contact: Stuart Osbourne, PR for Schools First 0412 190 820


SOURCE: Schools First - Tasmanian State Award