Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islanders

It is with pleasure I note that our ATSI student numbers are growing with each successive year. I would like to welcome both parents and students to Windaroo Valley High.

My timetable is as follows: Monday 9.15am to 1.15pm and also Friday 9.15am to 1.15pm. Please feel free to drop into my office at any of the above times for a social chat or any concerns regarding the education of your children.

If I am unable to be located for a phone call, please leave a message and I will contact you as soon as I possibly can.

A.T.A.S.

What is ATAS?

The Aboriginal Tutorial Assistance Scheme provides study help to students at all levels of education from primary and secondary school to TAFE college, university, or other formal post-schooling education or training.

The Scheme provides for qualified tutors to give tutorial support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and trainees who are assessed as needing supplementary assistance with their studies.

The extra help might be needed for a short time, or it might go on for a term or longer. The length of the tutoring depends on the educational needs of the students.

Sometimes the tutor will work with two or more students who are assessed as needing similar assistance with their studies. Subject to DETYA approval, tutors can also be contracted in Homework Centres which can be set up by ASSPA Committees.

Who can benefit from ATAS?

You may be an Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander enrolled in a formal course of education or training.

These courses include primary and secondary school, and any post-school course which leads to a certificate, diploma, degree or other official recognition of skills gained. ATAS is supplementary assistance and should not replace what your institution should be providing as part of the course of study.

How does it work?

Primary and secondary students and trainees can receive up to five hours of tutoring a week depending on the assessed need of the student/s. Tertiary students are eligible for up to two hours a week per subject depending on the assessed needs of the student/s.

It should be noted that these are the maximum levels available under ATAS. It is not envisaged that many students would require this level of support.

How do students apply?

DETYA Indigenous Education Units or District Offices have Education Officers who can advise you on how to apply.

University students should contact their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student centre at their institution.

Del Livermore
ATSI Officer