The Fogarty Learning Centre

In partnership with Edith Cowan University

Since 2003, the Fogarty Foundation has supported Edith Cowan University (ECU) through the Fogarty Learning Centre (FLC) at ECU Joondalup. Over the years, the partnership has enabled the development of literacy and numeracy clinics, research projects and scholarships and prizes.

Literacy and Numeracy Clinics

The FLC continues to offer pre-service teachers the opportunity to participate in the Literacy Coaching Program. Numeracy Clinics are conducted in the July school holidays where pre-service teaching students work individually with children from local schools to build core numeracy concepts.

Perth Wildcats

Another exciting initiative in the early stages of implementation involves Perth Wildcats Basketball players working in primary classrooms twice a week to aid the motivation and engagement of students. The aim is to use the knowledge gained from this project to provide a model of implementation for the involvement of high profile sports teams in other schools in low socio-economic areas. The feedback from the players themselves has been as positive as that of the students. Players commented that they preferred this extended role to the one-off clinics that they often conduct at schools, and believed they were making a more worthwhile contribution to the education of the students.

 

Research

The Foundation provided funding for research with the Early Childhood teachers at Roseworth Primary School. Over a period of nearly two years, they have worked together to increase teaching effectiveness and student learning through examination of the features of an early learning environment that supports positive behaviour management and deeper engagement in learning.

The Foundation initiated research into The Role of New School Boards in Independent Public Schools (IPS). Research was conducted at four primary schools that were part of the first cohort of IPS. The aim of the research was to explore the transition from School Councils to School Boards and the adjustments that have to be made with the increased responsibility that comes with the authority and accountability of self-governance. The researchers were also able to provide feedback to the Boards.

ECU Fogarty Professional Learning Centre

The ECU Fogarty Professional Learning Centre at Roseworth Primary School is an outcome of the strong relationship between the Foundation and ECU. Using state-of-the-art technology, the Learning Centre at Roseworth enables professional development for Roseworth teaching staff, research and teaching development in areas of early intervention, literacy, numeracy and student engagement which will inform ongoing teaching practises at the University.

Scholarships and Prizes

The Fogarty Foundation has continued to support the FLC at ECU by providing postgraduate scholarships for teachers to learn more about teaching students with learning difficulties. In 2012, a total of 11 scholarships were awarded for Graduate Certificate or Masters in Education programs. Past recipients are now involved in a range of teaching positions all over WA, with some undertaking further study.

The Fogarty Learning Centre Advisory Board

The FLC has an Advisory Board that is representative of the School of Education at ECU and major collaborative partners. The Board aims to enhance the FLC’s engagement with educational service providers and through them, with the broader community.

Members of the Board include the Director of the FLC, the Head of School of Education, directors of related research centres at ECU and two other School of Education representatives. Senior members of the WA Department of Education and Training, the Catholic Education Office and the Independent Schools sector represent their jurisdictions. Annie Fogarty joined the Advisory Board in 2011.

Last update August 2012