The state government has allocated an extra $258.4 million to extend the Tutor Learning Initiative into 2023, which will allow Victorian schools, including those in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, to retain the tutors who provided support to students throughout 2021 and 2022.
More than 99,500 students in government schools have already received tutoring support so far this year, with more than 2000 schools participating and government schools employing more than 5150 tutors.
First announced for the 2021 school year, the initiative was launched in response to the period of remote and flexible learning in 2020 and was continued again last year after feedback that it not only supported students to catch up on schoolwork but provided the critical boost to confidence many kids needed.
The tutor program has called on pre-service teachers, teachers on leave, retired teachers and casual relief teachers to get back in the classroom – with at least one tutor in all government schools, including in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay.
Over the past two years, tutors have worked both in the classroom and remotely to identify and support the students who needed extra help.
Education Minister Natalie Hutchins said tutors were an important part of the education system during 2020 and 2021.
“Our tutors play an integral role in ensuring that Victorian students can get the best education – that’s why we are extending the program to ensure these learning supports continue to be available,” she said.
