- $12 million investment by BHP over four years to enhance education services and improve education outcomes in public schools in the Pilbara
- BHP Pilbara Education Partnership extension to benefit public schools in Newman, Port Hedland and surrounding areas within the Shire of East Pilbara and Town of Port Hedland
A successful partnership that benefits students in public schools in the Pilbara will continue for a further four years under a $12 million extended agreement.
The BHP-funded Pilbara Education Partnership will continue in schools in Newman, Port Hedland and surrounding areas from 2025 to 2028, and is the largest industry and government partnership in regional Western Australia.
Education Minister Dr Tony Buti today announced the new agreement at Newman Senior High School which will allow important programs that help improve the education outcomes of students to continue in schools.
The partnership will continue to focus on the key areas of: the early years, and pathways to employment or further study for senior students.
The Rise Up Program at Hedland Senior High School and Newman Senior High School will continue and there will also be a grants program giving schools the opportunity to take on additional STEM-related initiatives.
As stated by Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"The BHP Pilbara Education Partnership will continue for another four years at a number of public schools in the region, which is fantastic news for students and school staff.
"The programs and opportunities provided to students through this important partnership help to inspire and motivate students in their learning.
"We've seen improved academic results, increased attendance and engagement with the community in secondary schools while in primary schools, there has been greater participation and engagement of parents in students' learning.
"These are fantastic outcomes and I'm pleased the partnership will benefit more students in the Pilbara over the next four years."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"This is a fantastic partnership with BHP that has already delivered such positive results for students in Newman and throughout the Pilbara.
"I am delighted to hear that it is being continued and would like to thank BHP for their continued investment in the area."
Comments attributed to BHP's WA Iron Ore Asset President, Tim Day:
"Helping kids and teens in the Pilbara build a strong foundation for their future - both in school and beyond - is important to us as a business and one of the most meaningful ways we can give back to our local communities.
"For almost 20 years, this partnership in education has made a huge difference in the lives of local students and communities, helping with school readiness, student wellbeing, attendance, and providing pathways to jobs.
"Investing in education in the communities in which we operate is key to our sustainability and we're excited to build on our shared success and create even better learning opportunities for the future generations of regional WA."