The best way to advocate on behalf of English is to be well informed about DoE policy.

The DoE Literacy Policy sets out specific requirements for schools. There are a number of requirements relating to English:

• In planning programs for achieving literacy outcomes in years 1-8, teachers will use the English statement and profile and, where appropriate, the statements and profiles of other learning areas.
• They will also refer to learning area guidelines, Tasmanian Literacy Outcomes and, where appropriate, materials provided through the Flying Start Program.
• From Prep to Year 6, there will be a minimum of one hour each day dedicated to the teaching and learning of literacy.
• In Years 7 and 8, a minimum of 200 minutes each five-day week will be dedicated to English, with at least three periods of contact. In schools where English is part of an integrated Humanities program, a minimum of 200 minutes per week will be dedicated to English.
• In developing Year 9 and 10 courses from Tasmanian Certificate of Education English syllabuses, schools will provide the design time required by the syllabus; that is, 100 hours for ‘B’ syllabuses.
• Because of interruptions to classroom time, schools should aim to provide at least three hours per five-day week, with three periods of contact time per week.
• In developing Year 11 and 12 courses from Tasmanian Certificate of Education English syllabuses, schools will provide the design time required by the syllabus; that is, 100 hours for ‘B’ syllabuses and 150 hours for ‘C’ syllabuses. Because of interruptions to classroom time, colleges should aim to provide at least 3.5 hours per five-day week for ‘B’ syllabuses and at least five hours per five-day week for ‘C’ syllabuses.

In advocating for English, you will receive significant support from TATE, PETA and ALEA . If you have a specific inquiry, contact the PCO through Enquiries on Line.