Welcome to 2016. I am looking forward to another busy and productive year working in collaboration with teachers, schools, sectors, universities and the whole education community to build on the significant achievements made in BOSTES’ first two years. Our common aim is to achieve the highest standards of education in NSW schools.

Quality teaching is the single biggest factor in improving student outcomes in the classroom, and we will continue to work with our partners on raising the already high standard of teaching in our schools, supporting the initial training and ongoing professional development of teachers and enhancing the status of the whole profession. January saw the NSW Government announce that early childhood teachers will be accredited alongside their peers in schools, providing important recognition of the professionalism and the value of their role within our education system.

This year marks the introduction of minimum academic standards, literacy and numeracy tests and improved practicum arrangements for NSW initial teacher education students. Over 2016 BOSTES will continue working to strengthen measures to ensure that future teachers are of the highest calibre, capable and well-suited to the demands of the classroom, including working with the universities to develop an assessment of suitability for prospective teaching students.

Now in its 50^th year, the HSC is a credential that has stood the test of time. Rigorous, flexible and inclusive, the NSW HSC has earned respect and recognition around the world for its quality and integrity.

An important aspect of the success of the HSC is close collaboration with teachers, schools and parents in ensuring relevance and rigour of syllabuses. As part of this process, we are reviewing the HSC English, Mathematics, Science and History syllabuses. I encourage anyone involved or interested in these subjects to contribute as opportunities arise during the continuing consultation process.

I am proud of the high level of collaboration between BOSTES, the three school sectors, parent groups, teachers and universities. I look forward to another positive year as we work together to achieve the very best for all our schools and students.

Tom Alegounarias
President