A well-educated, trained and skilled Mid West population is fundamental to its social and economic development. Quality education and training are key drivers of economic growth, a higher standard of living and a socially cohesive community.
The region has a range of quality education, training and tertiary institutions that offer diverse secondary and post high schooling options. Nevertheless, the Mid West faces a number of education and training challenges and further investment is critical for regional growth and development.
Low education outcomes impact on the future life options of the region’s young people and correlates with poor childhood development and health and wellbeing outcomes generally. They are also unlikely to result in a highly skilled workforce of the future.
A growing body of work confirms the importance of pre-compulsory learning and early education, which is acknowledged in the Blueprint.
This chapter identifies the Blueprint's key Knowledge and Learning focus and priorities.