Review of final report and government response
The non-state schools accreditation framework review (the review) has been completed, delivering recommendations to ensure a contemporary non-state schools accreditation framework (the accreditation framework).
The
review final report makes recommendations related to 4 key themes of:
- culture, collaboration and communication
- clarity and consistency
- compliance
- community confidence.
The
Queensland Government response to the review outlines a 2-phase implementation approach. Most recommendations have multiple elements, with some that will progress from Phase 1, and others that will progress from Phase 2. Many recommendation elements will continue across both phases.
Phase 1 will deliver on immediate priorities that can be implemented from 2024. Phase 2 will progress the remaining recommendations from 2025 including those that require possible legislative amendment, or further, more detailed consideration.
About the review
In October 2022, the Queensland Government announced a comprehensive, independent review of the accreditation framework used for non-state schools in Queensland and released the review's
terms of reference.
In early 2023, Ms Cheryl Vardon AO was
announced as the Independent Reviewer. Ms Vardon AO has had a distinguished career as an educator, is recognised for her leadership in the protection of vulnerable children and young people, and is an experienced reviewer of complex systems.
The accreditation framework comprises of the
Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Act 2017 and Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Regulation 2017, administered by the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board.
The purpose of the review was to ensure the accreditation framework is fit for purpose, supports the provision of quality education and maintains public confidence in Queensland's non-state schools.
In line with the terms of reference, the review looked at the regulation of non-state schools in other jurisdictions, assessed the powers currently in place, considered the balance between imposing standards and minimising regulatory burden, and made recommendations for improvements.
The review did not consider or make recommendations about state schooling, home education, government funding of non-state schools or regulatory or standards frameworks in other fields.