Cairns School of Distance Education – Governance, Strategy, and Planning
Purpose & Governance
At Cairns School of Distance Education (SDE), our priority is to deliver responsible online education services to Queensland families focused on equity and excellence.
- Flexible Learning Access: We support a global and connected world by offering flexible learning options for all students.
- Part of the Queensland State School System: Governed by the General Education Act of Queensland, we deliver the Australian Curriculum, Senior Curriculum (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority), and Vocational Education and Training (VET) certificate courses.
- Collaborative Partnerships: We partner with other schools to provide online learning opportunities to students enrolled with them.
- Choice of Learning Modes: Full-time students have the option to access learning through:
- Live sessions
- Recorded lessons
- A hybrid of both.
- A Rich History: Starting over 50 years ago as Cairns School of the Air, we initially provided education via radio to geographically isolated students. Today, we serve over 4,000 students and our reach extends globally.
- Inclusive Learning Community: Cairns SDE does not have an endorsed catchment area, giving families the freedom to choose our school. However, with this choice comes the expectation that all students meet the Australian Curriculum, Queensland Senior Schooling Curriculum and VET certification requirements.
What Do I Need to Bring?
To succeed in online learning, students should be prepared with the following:
- IT skills: Basic knowledge of technology.
- Reliable Internet: Access to consistent internet services.
- Basic Computer Hardware: Students do not need high-spec computers but must have basic equipment to access learning platforms.
Please note: Cairns SDE does not provide hardware or internet services.
- Home Tutor Support: Online learning relies heavily on adult support, referred to as the "Home Tutor." Home Tutors play an essential role in supporting what is taught by the teacher.
- Learning Options: Students and families can choose between live or recorded lessons, with flexibility depending on the student's age and ability.
- Attendance: Attendance is tracked based on the work returned to the teacher.
We encourage all families to carefully consider these requirements before enrolling at Cairns SDE.
Communication, Participation, and Expectation
At Cairns SDE, we view education as a partnership between the school and each family. Communication is a shared responsibility and we encourage ongoing interaction to ensure success.
- Regular Communication: We invite families to maintain regular contact with teachers to address any challenges and ensure progress.
- Parent & Community Involvement: We encourage all parents to join our P&C and become active members. Our P&C reflects the diverse community we serve.
- Resolving Learning Matters: Any learning-related questions should first be addressed with your child's teacher. For more significant or confidential matters, please contact your child's Deputy Principal.
- Code of Conduct: We encourage families to become familiar with the Department of Education's Code of Conduct for Parents and the Community.
Parent and Community Code of Conduct
Our Expectations: Promoting Equity and Excellence
We believe that student wellbeing and achievement are interconnected and essential for success.
- Dedication to Excellence: Our dedicated school team is passionate about delivering online teaching that fosters both achievement and wellbeing in every student.
- Creating Pathways: Our goal is to provide students with options and pathways that will help them succeed beyond school.
- The Role of Home Tutors: We recognize and champion the critical role Home Tutors play in supporting student achievement.
We are humbled and excited to work with you in education.