Community combats poor school attendance with TV commercials

A community 250 kilometres north-west of Brisbane is taking truancy matters into its own hands.

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Nigel Scullions truancy program will target low attendance rates in remote schools

In response to the roll out of Nigel Scullion's truancy program, the Cherbourg Aboriginal Council has created a series of advertisements aimed at getting more Aboriginal kids to school.

This is the first in a series of commercials to address the low levels of school attendance rates in remote communities.

The initiative was created in collaboration with community members and filmmakers.

CEO of the local Aboriginal Land Council Warren Collins said they wanted to find a way to engage parents in their child's education.

"I think a lot of people in this community agree that education is the key, that's why we want all students to get a good education," Mr Collins said.

It's still not certain whether the small community of just over 1000 people will be included in the roll-out of  Scullion's truancy program.

But Mr Collins said they would appreciate any help they can get.

"We're yet to find out if we're getting a truancy officer or how it will add to our community, but I think it would be beneficial," Mr Collins said.

The Cherbourg Aboriginal Council is hoping to raise enough money to broadcast their advertisements on national television.

Mr Collins said it's one of the most important ways his community can move forward.

"For our children to compete in society they need to have a very good standard of education," Mr Collins said.


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2 min read

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Updated

By Brooke Boney
Source: NITV News

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