Here are five key findings:
- There is an urgent need for change. The Gonski Review found that Australia is investing far too little in schools and the way the money is distributed is not efficient, effective or fair. The system is failing too many students who are missing out on the resources they need.
- There are growing gaps in student achievement. While Australia remains a high achieving nation in education, our overall performance has fallen in the last decade. Students in disadvantaged areas are up to three years behind those of the same age who live in wealthy areas. One in seven 15 year old students does not have basic reading skills.
- We must invest for success. The review recommends a major increase in funding to schools. The way it is distributed would also change to better meet the needs of students. It says public schools should get the greatest increases in funding for additional staff, learning programs and upgraded facilities. Funding would vary according to the needs of students, but the average increase would be almost $1,500 a student per year. That is enough for seven extra teachers in a public school with 500 students.
- The Federal Government needs to lead the way. Gonski recommends a much greater funding commitment to public schools from the Federal Government. Currently it is only providing 15 per cent of the money that public schools receive, despite having access to greater revenue sources than state and territory governments
- Our children’s future is at stake. The report’s recommendations are aimed at ensuring every child has the same chance to receive a high quality education. But Gonski warns a failure to act will cost not only our children but our country: “Australia will only slip further behind unless, as a nation, we act and act now.”
More at http://igiveagonski.com.au/
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