Vinson returns to audit recommendations

By Maree O’Halloran

Inquiry into the Provision of Public Education in NSW chair Professor Tony Vinson is currently conducting an audit of the State Government's progress towards implementing the recommendations of his 2002 Vinson Report.

Commissioned once again by the Parents and Citizens Association and the Teachers Federation, Professor Vinson will have his audit completed by Thursday, May 19, 2005 which is Public Education Day this year.

Professor Vinson's introductory letter explains the basis of his audit and requests co-operation from the Department of Education and Training

Director-General Andrew Cappie-Wood was due to meet with Professor Vinson on February 9.

Initiated in 2001 (three Ministers and three Directors-General ago), the independent Vinson Inquiry team held 28 public hearings, visited over more than 150 schools and TAFE Colleges and received almost 800 submissions. In the lead up to the 2003 state election, the Inquiry findings prompted both State Labor and the Coalition to promise smaller class sizes K-2 and more professional development funds in the lead up to the 2003 state election.

Schools and TAFE colleges are encouraged to refer to the Vinson Inquiry process and findings in response to the Department's redundant Futures Project. Further, information to assist Federation Representatives and principals will be sent to worksites and made available on the website.

Professor Vinson will be located at Sydney University during his audit and assisted by Dr Kathy Esson, one of the original Inquiry team members. Professor Vinson will be visiting schools and colleges as part of the audit process.

Following the audit, Professor Vinson will conduct further research into those areas of his report that have not been adopted or properly implemented by the Government. These areas include comprehensive schools and increased government funding.

Maree O'Halloran is the President.

Vinson's letter to the Director-General