SA Premier Mike Rann promises 155 more specialist teachers

A RE-ELECTED Rann Government would recruit and train up to 155 specialist maths and science teachers to work in South Australian high schools.

Under the six-year $9.44 million Teach SA program, up to 40 maths and science graduates and career professionals will receive financial support and a guaranteed job at the end of their studies to undertake a one year post graduate teaching program.

Another 100 existing teachers will be supported to get special qualifications in maths and science and 15 teachers will be given scholarships to get higher level qualifications in physics, chemistry or maths.

Premier Mike Rann said the best teachers will be fast tracked towards the top level pay of at least $80,000.

“Having better skilled teachers in science and maths makes sense if we are to prepare young people for highly skilled jobs for the future,” he said.

Meanwhile Mr Rann said he will debate Opposition Leader Isobel Redmond on Channel 10 on March 2 “whether she is ready or not”.

Mr Rann said he had tried to “lock down” the date for several weeks after “hesitation and indecision’ from Mrs Redmond.

“I have offered up four dates all of which are apparently unacceptable to Mrs Redmond because we have been told she is unavailable but it appears she is just not ready,” he said.

“When I was challenged to a debate by Premiers Olsen and Kerin, I simply turned up on the date they chose. If she is unavailable, I have no hesitation in debating any of her predecessors.

“I’m quiet happy to debate her Deputy Stephen Griffiths if she is not available or ready.”

Source: Adelaide Now