The Minister for Education, Julia Gillard, has paid tribute to teachers who work in government, Catholic and independent schools as school students, parents and communities from across Australia prepare to celebrate World Teachers' Day. The Minister encourages everyone to get involved in World Teachers' Day and show our great appreciation for the work teachers do and the important role they play in our community. Today, schools across Australia will hold activities to say thank you to their teachers. The day was celebrated internationally on 5 October, but due to the timing of school holidays Australia is to celebrate the work of teachers today.
Research shows that nothing at school influences student outcomes more than excellent teaching. The impact a quality teacher has on a young person can be significant and life long. In partnership with State, Territory, Independent and Catholic school authorities, the Rudd Government is driving reform to ensure we attract, train, place, develop and importantly retain quality teachers and leaders in our classrooms and schools. A National Partnership on improving teacher quality is being pursued through the Council of Australian Governments because the Rudd Government understands that the quality of a school system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers.
