Overview for School Staff

Preparing students and teachers

  • The implementation of Middle Years and Senior Years is designed to allow students and staff to relocate as seamlessly as possible – recognising that the start of a new school year is already a time when most students and teachers expect to experience change.

  • Teachers and school leaders are participating in professional learning activities. Schools have planned a range of orientation sessions, open days and one-on-one meetings to ensure everyone has the information they need. Many middle schools have invited Years 6 and 7 students and their teachers to visit and undertake orientation activities together. Schools are continuing to provide primary to secondary school transition programs.

Government’s Decision

The Northern Territory Government has announced its three year plan to implement the Middle Years in government schools across the Territory. Middle Years is central to Government’s plan to reform secondary education and improve the engagement, retention and outcomes of Northern Territory students.

Secondary education in the Northern Territory comprises:
• The Middle Years – Years 7 to 9
• The Senior Years – Years 10 to 12

Large schools in remote areas with approved secondary programs established a Senior Years sub school from 2007 and a Middle Years sub school from 2008. Schools and distance education providers are supported by business areas within the Department of Education and Training (DET) to deliver the Middle Years approach to remote students through a combination of distance education and face-to-face teacher contact.

Government’s decision to implement the Middle Years approach presents principals, teachers, and school support staff with an exciting opportunity to lead a profound change that promises a better education for our students.

Further Information

Additional information relevant to both government and non-government school staff will be made available on the Department of Education and Training's website at www.deet.nt.gov.au.

Information specifically for staff in Northern Territory Government schools will be made available on the DET Staff Site.