Source: Federated Farmers
Strong feedback from Federated Farmers and school leaders has resulted in a re-think on teaching Agriculture and Horticultural Science in Year 11.
A proposal to remove that course of study as a standalone subject, and blend the topics into general science teaching, has been ditched by the Government.
“Minister Stanford has listened to clear feedback from farmers and rural communities – and she’s acted on it,” Federated Farmers education spokesperson Greg Anderson says.
“Federated Farmers, the Horticulture and Agriculture Teachers Association and provincial high schools made a clear and compelling case to the Minister to save this subject.
“Teaching agricultural and horticultural sciences at Year 11 is of critical importance. That’s when students begin choosing subjects that shape their future career pathways.
“It plays such an important role in opening students’ eyes to the huge opportunities that exist in our primary sector on farms, in labs, or in supporting industries.”
While it was always the Government’s intention to include agriculture and horticulture components under general science teaching, Anderson says it wasn’t good enough.
“It’s fantastic the Government has recognised the importance of these subjects and will allow them to continue as standalone course options,” he says.
“Curriculum reviews are important to keep content fresh and relevant, but removing agricultural and horticultural science for Year 11 would have been a significant misstep.
“For students interested in focusing on agriculture and horticulture content, it would have got lost among all the other topics if it had been combined into general science.”
Anderson says Stanford has proven herself to be a Minister who is willing to listen to feedback and make changes when they’re clearly needed.
“It takes a lot of guts to admit you’ve got something wrong, but what really matters is how you go about putting it right,” he says.
“We are incredibly grateful the Minister has directed her officials to revisit this decision. It will ensure there’s a clear pathway for teens keen to work in our primary sector.
“Students will now be able to study agricultural and horticultural sciences from Year 11, and through to Year 13, to get a real practical feel for the engine room of our economy.
“From 2029, senior students will also be able to move into the new industry-led Food and Fibre subject currently being developed for Years 12 and 13.
“Today’s decision from the Minister is the right one and will give the primary sector a fair shot at recruiting talented students to power our export-led economy.
“It will also help create a clear pipeline of students from our secondary schools, through our universities, and out into the workplace.”