Department of Education and Training

Teachers reconnect at Thriving in the Territory conference 19 Jul 2010
More than 100 teachers from across the Territory gathered in Alice Springs during the mid-semester break to reconnect with colleagues and share both the highlights and challenges of their first semester. The Thriving in the Territory recall conference included a number of innovative and interactive elements including a Facebook group, Twitter live feeds and SMS phone polling. Among the highlights were the presentations of personalised teaching stories by seven of the new recruits. The teacher orientation program familiarises teachers with the Territory education system and provides them with ongoing support and development throughout their first year.

2010 show circuit 06 Jul 2010
The 2010 show circuit kicked off last Friday, 2 July, in Alice Springs with Department of Education and Training staff on hand at the Smart Territory display. The interactive display showcases the programs and initiatives run by the department at NT Government Schools throughout the various stages of schooling. There is also information for parents about how to help their children improve their literacy and numeracy and for older students there is a guide to vocational education and training in the Territory. Visitors to the stand enjoyed playing with the interactive SMARTboard and attempting to solve the Rubix cubes. The Smart Territory display will also travel to the upcoming Tennant Creek, Katherine and Darwin shows in July.

Students identify ‘saving energy’ as big priority at Sustainability Summit  10 Jun 2010
About 200 people, including 136 students from 18 schools, gathered at Millner Primary School for the first Student Summit for Sustainability on 7 June. Students from Darwin and Katherine shared their ideas, hopes and dreams for the future of our earth, toured the school's Solar Outdoor Learning Area and quizzed a panel of experts on sustainable development. Delegates said they wanted to see schools use renewable energy, reduce waste and grow permaculture gardens. Saving energy by turning off lights and electrical appliances when not needed was identified, as a major priority. Students explored what they need to do to live more sustainably before drafting a communication strategy and an action plan for the work ahead.