I am pleased to advise that on 12 August 2021, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has agreed to the Australian Government's proposal to seek a license from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) to use the NSW curriculum on Norfolk Island for 2022 and 2023. The license is expected to be in place before the end of 2021, when NSW ceases education services on Norfolk Island.
A new licensing arrangement will ensure the school community, particularly the senior cohort, are not disadvantaged while transition arrangements are being negotiated and implemented. The Australian and New South Wales Governments are working hard to conclude all the arrangements as soon as possible.
I know that the opportunity to license the curriculum will be especially welcomed by Year 10 students at Norfolk Island Central School (NICS), who will now be able to choose their HSC subjects, and by Year 11 students who can confidently prepare for the commencement of their HSC year in Term 4, 2021.
Work to determine the arrangements for transitioning NSW teaching staff who are interested in remaining at NICS to a new delivery partner is ongoing, with information to be made available as we progress negotiations.
All governments are committed to working together to minimise any impacts of transition on the Norfolk Island community, particularly students and school staff, which is why we are continuing to prioritise stability and consistency as we work to deliver the best outcome for Norfolk Island into the long term.
Eric Hutchinson
Administrator of Norfolk Island
13 August 2021