Stewart Riddle writes in The Conversation (18.4.16) about evidence that undermines the federal government’s claims that a ‘needs-based’ funding model for schools won’t necessarily improve student performance.
‘A report released by UNICEF ranked Australia 24 out of 37 participating countries in education equality. It is the latest evidence of a widening gap in educational outcomes between the most and least advantaged students.
‘The federal education minister, Simon Birmingham, has made a point of uncoupling school funding from education outcomes since coming to the role in last September’s cabinet reshuffle. He has argued consistently that more money does not lead to better outcomes.
‘… What would truly be in the interests of all Australian students would be for governments of all persuasions to leave the politics at the door and work together on a policy solution for better resourcing all schools and students.
‘And, yes, that means more money where it is most needed.’