15/05/07
The State Government has committed $70,000 to a unique skills program for school students in Halls Creek.
Launching the Horse Mastery Program at Halls Creek District High School, Indigenous Affairs Minister Michelle Roberts, said the innovative course would help students struggling with traditional subjects gain a meaningful purpose to attending school.
"This course focuses on motivating students to participate in school by linking educational outcomes with practical, meaningful activities," Mrs Roberts said.
"The program aims to improve their literacy and numeracy skills in the classroom through completing tasks that are relevant to a working life on the land.
"Here is a great example of the State Government making a difference to the students in the Halls Creek community. This support is another step in our overall program for Halls Creek."
Students in the program are taught to ride and care for horses, tally cattle numbers, map the plan for a day's mustering and keep a horse record book.
"This program provides both life skills and work readiness which gives students a real chance to make the most of employment opportunities." Mrs Roberts said.
The Minister said the Department of Indigenous Affairs had teamed up with the Halls Creek District High School and local mining company, Argyle Diamonds to fund the Horse Mastery program.
The program will cost approximately $230,000 a year to operate.
Principal at Halls Creek District High School, David Faulkner welcomed the commitment by the State Government and Argyle Diamonds.
"This program will play a key role in boosting school attendance and retention rates. It is a bold and innovative step in crafting school work that better suits the needs and requirements of the students and better prepares them for the future," Mr Faulkner said
Argyle Diamonds general manager Operations, Kevin McLeish said the company was very pleased to support such an innovative and creative program that would provide long-term benefits for young people.
Central Kimberley-Pilbara MLA Tom Stephens said the Horse Mastery Program was a striking example of how schools and communities could work together for the benefit of children and young people.
"I congratulate Halls Creek District High School principal David Faulkner and his staff for developing this program and involving industry and the community," Mr Stephens said.
Minister's office - 9213 6600
