In 2019-2020, consultations across NSW took place with a range of stakeholders to understand the achievements, complexities and challenges facing education in rural communities. 2293 consultations were completed that included survey responses, individual and group meetings. Four key themes emerged and formed the basis of the strategy. These are:

• Key area 1 – People: Supply students in rural and remote communities with more high-quality educators who are aware of localised needs.
• Key area 2 – Practice: Better equip and develop rural and remote teachers to deliver a broader curriculum, contextualised to the needs of the community, to offer engaging learning opportunities for students.
• Key area 3 – Participation: Ensure staff and students in rural and remote schools are more empowered to address wellbeing needs through stronger connections to their communities.
• Key area 4 – Partnerships: Leverage more productive partnerships with higher education providers, vocational education providers and local industry to increase rural and remote student achievement, ambition and access to post-school opportunities.

In February 2021, the Strategy was launched by NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning. With an investment of over 1 billion dollars planned over the next three years, the strategy makes it clear how a whole-systems approach brings together resourcing and exciting initiatives to support this important work.

Our whole-of-system approach

Learn more about the approach taken in this strategy to drive and deliver equitable student achievement in rural and remote schools.