Without having asked follow up questions to the issue of access to professional learning, the results from the What AEU Women Want survey unfortunately can't tell us more than that well over two thirds of those surveyed feel they are not accessing quality professional learning. Whether the emphasis of their concern is the quality or their workload not allowing participation, we can say that the desire of AEU women to maintain professional standards and integrity remains a high priority.

Women's Conference delegates should have received the request in their information circular, to speak to colleagues prior to the conference, about what their views are regarding professional learning opportunities and to bring these views to the workshop to assist debate and to help formulate a union response reflective of the high priority women from the survey gave the issue.

It is clear however, that without additional resources and professional recognition, neither access to nor  quality professional learning will occur amongst AEU members. The two reports here address the issue of professional pay and standards, and schools funding, in response to Rudd Labor Government initiatives in education. They form key campaign areas for the union federally.

“Professional Pay and Teaching Standards - Statement and Background Paper” by Angelo Gavrielatos, AEU Federal President.

Report Summary - Reviewing the evidence: Issues in Commonwealth Funding of Government and Non-government Schools in the Howard and Rudd Years” by Dr Jim McMorrow