How does your state/territory define the 'middle years'?

Background

Officers of the Council have been involved in middle schooling initiatives over the past few years including the National Middle Schooling Project (completed in 1997) and the establishment of the Queensland based Middle Years of Schooling Association in 1999.

Queensland School Curriculum Council: For the purposes of the Queensland School Curriculum Council’s Middle Years of Schooling Forum the middle years are considered to be Years 5 to 10 (typically students are aged 10—15 years).

Education Queensland has no approved definition for "middle years".

What initiatives/programs are currently being implemented in the 'middle years' in your state or territory?

Queensland School Curriculum Council: The Council is conducting a Middle Years of Schooling Forum (May-June 2000) to determine how curriculum and tests can be better developed for young adolescents. A copy of the forum background paper is attached.

Education Queensland: Under school-based management, change is being implemented at school level and reflects local needs.

Middle Years of Schooling Association: Conference held 10—11 March 2000.

What are some of the current issues being addressed in your state/territory?

Queensland School Curriculum Council: Curriculum and testing needs of young adolescents are issues being explored through the Council’s Middle Years of Schooling Forum.

Education Queensland: Middle years of schooling issues are addressed at school level.