Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said state school Prep classes would have a teacher aide from next year.

Mr Crawford said the boost to Prep learning was part of the Palaszczuk Government’s 2017-18 Budget.

“We want our youngest students to get the best start to their education,” Mr Crawford said.

“That’s why our government is boosting teacher aide hours to ensure every Prep class has access to a teacher aide for the first time.

“Prep teacher aides play a vital role in helping children develop the basic skills they need for learning at school.”

Mr Crawford said the Palaszczuk Government would invest $24.8 million over four years to provide an extra 4000 teacher aide hours per week.

“We know that participation in Prep improves a child’s educational outcomes,” Mr Crawford said.

“That is why the Palaszczuk Government legislated to ensure that all Queensland students benefit from a full-time Prep year before starting Year 1.

“More Prep teacher aides will support our students to get the most out of their first year of full-time schooling.

“Teacher aides play a valuable role assisting teachers by developing resources, supporting students’ learning, and helping with practical duties in the classroom.”

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