Under the Commonwealth Government Targeted Programs assistance to independent schools is provided to improve the educational outcomes and opportunities for identified students. The Association of Independent Schools of NSW (AISNSW) has responsibility for administering the Country Areas Program (CAP) for independent schools in NSW. CAP helps isolated students to obtain similar learning outcomes as students in less isolated areas.
CAP funding is available for projects which enhance the educational achievements and increase the opportunities and choices available to students disadvantaged by geographic isolation. These students are located in the following institutions:
- non-government primary and secondary schools located in geographically isolated areas, or non-government distance education facilities servicing these areas; and/or
- non-government special schools or non-government schools with special units for students with disabilities that meet the above criteria are eligible for support.
CAP funds are intended to enable projects to be conducted to meet the particular needs of geographically isolated students. These funds are not to be used as a substitute for funding resources or services, which are the responsibility of education systems, other agencies or providers. State and Northern Territory non-government education authorities must only use CAP funds for projects that support:
- curriculum enhancement
- information and communication technology
- professional development
- promotion of CAP
- school support.