USQ and FlexiSchool to sign MOU

The University of Southern Queensland (USQ) and the Toowoomba FlexiSchool will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise their collaboration and extend ties on Tuesday 15 July at 10:00 am.
 
Developed in 1998 as a community-based education initiative for marginalised young people, the Toowoomba FlexiSchool predominantly operates under the umbrella of Centenary Heights State High School.
 
Former USQ lecturer and Honorary Professor Glen Postle AM has been involved in the school since its inception.
 
'The MoU will provide a basis on which the University can provide pathways and access for kids from the FlexiSchool to go on to university,' Professor Postle said.
 
'It acknowledges opportunities for USQ and the FlexiSchool to work together.'
 
Under the arrangement the University will investigate ways to provide access and build pathways for FlexiSchool graduates wanting to undertake tertiary studies as well as provide training opportunities for staff of the School.
 
The MoU will give USQ the opportunity to identify areas for potential practicum arrangements for USQ teaching students and for staff to conduct research and development in alternative education and social inclusion.
 
'The School has been operating for ten years now and we have anecdotal evidence that positive things are beginning to happen but we need good research to see what works and what doesn't work,' Professor Postle said.
 
'This is a huge opportunity for the University to promote a form of community engagement that focuses on an issue that is common to many communities - marginalised and disenfranchised youth.'
 
The FlexiSchool currently has 70 students and recently received an award for Excellence in Senior Schooling.
 
'It's an alternative school that is interested in real achievement and the development of positive self-esteem and self concept. 
 
'Last year USQ held a familiarisation program where eight students visited the University to become familiar with what a tertiary institution is about and visited the library and Student Services. 
 
'About five took on a unit of study with their year 12 program, all of them did well and some have enrolled at USQ.'
 
Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559