Four local schools will soon have more authority to make decisions best suited to their students after receiving Independent Public School status, Alfred Cove MLA Dr Janet Woollard said today.

“I am pleased to congratulate the four local schools in my electorate that have been successful in their applications to receive public school status,” Dr Woollard said.

“Applecross Primary School, Applecross Senior High School, Ardross Primary School and Attadale Primary School are among the next wave of schools to become independent in 2012.

“These schools are now free to set their own directions – all with the support of families and communities who are seeing the benefits for their children.

“This policy has been very successful at other schools across Western Australia.

“These schools are now able to work more closely with parents, communities and others with expertise to provide additional help for those students who need it, or further challenge talented students.

“Importantly, through school boards, parents are empowered to have a greater say in how their children are educated.

“By working more closely with their communities and others with expertise, principals can tailor programs and resources to benefit their unique student body.”