CLOSING the gap between rural and metropolitan education is the aim of the NSW Government’s new Rural Access Gap (RAG) program.
More than 1000 regional schools, including Balranald Central School are set to benefit from the $365.8 million program, which will supply and upgrade digital devices to schools with the aim to bridge the divide between metropolitan and rural and regional schools.
The program also includes each school nominating a Digital Classroom Officer (DCO) – a teacher who supports the staff of their school to embed technology into teaching and learning. For Balranald Central School, that teacher is Alannah Temp.
“As the DCO, I do the training and the upskilling to then support staff in the school, both teaching and non-teaching staff, with the way they are using technology and hopefully increase their confidence and overall improve the way that we use technology in the school,” Ms Temp said.
Across the state, the RAG program will also deliver internet enhancement, learning space and platform upgrades, more external and on-site tech support, simplified admin processes, targeted training, better tools and more time to focus on students.
“It’s trying to make sure that all schools and students are meeting or matching the access to technology that they have in the urban centres,” Ms Temp said.
Minister for customer service and digital government Victor Dominello said in order to close the digital divide, it is crucial to work closely with rural and regional schools to understand their needs and priorities.
“This investment from the Digital Restart Fund ensures today’s students, no matter where they live, have the best access to tomorrow’s opportunities,” Mr Dominello said.
“The RAG program is delivering internet enhancements, learning space and platform upgrades, more external and on-site tech support, simplified admin processes, targeted training and giving teachers more time to focus on students.”
More information about the RAG program can be found at https://education.nsw.gov.au/about-us/strategies-and-reports/schools-digital-strategy/rural-access-gap
