School Partners Program Reaps Rewards For Ipswich Students

More than 75 Year 12 students from the greater Ipswich region have enrolled to study at USQ's Springfield campus in 2007 following the introduction of an innovative new schools partnership program.

Program Coordinator Margo Baas said 18 schools in the region had signed up to the program since it was launched in 2006.

'The USQ Priority Plus School Partnership Program is all about giving students better access to tertiary studies, so we're delighted with these results in our inaugural year for the USQ Springfield campus,' she said.

'I want to thank all the Principals and staff for their support of the program and we look forward to its continued success in 2007.'

Ms Baas said there were many benefits for schools looking to join the Priority Plus Partnership Program.

'We work with both teachers and students to make it easier for high school students to make the transition into university,' she said.

'The program aims to help partner schools gain a higher percentage of tertiary placements for their students through generous scholarships to USQ and a bonus OP point for every eligible Year 12 student.

'As part of the partnership teachers receive access to syllabus-based teaching resources and materials, prepared in consultation with the school.

'And teachers are further supported with free borrowing rights to the USQ Libraries, Priority Plus access to Postgraduate courses and staff development workshops.

'Students also receive access to a number of initiatives to help them prepare for University, including the Head Start Program where they can undertake a University course while completing their Senior Certificate,' she said.

For further information about the USQ Priority Plus School Partnership Program, contact Margo Baas on 07 4631 2267.

Photo Opportunity: USQ Springfield is hosting a networking lunch for current Priority Plus School Partnership Program Principals. A number of schools will be presented with a plaque in recognition of their support.

WHEN: Tuesday, 20 February 2007 at 1.30pm
WHERE: Brookwater Golf Club, Augusta Parkway, Brookwater

Media Contact: Sam Ireland, USQ Media, 07 3470 4117 or 0428 102 979