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Why public and private schools are partners in educating all Australian children

19 9
16.01.2025

John Frew in a recent essay asserts that public schools are increasingly burdened with students facing complex challenges.

Meanwhile, private schools lure more desirable students with questionable claims of better academic outcomes and stricter discipline.

As a principal of 20 years, I must disagree with Frew’s depiction of public schools as a “toxic environment in which violence and chaos flourish…. [because] they shoulder the exclusive burden of supporting students whose severe behavioural challenges stem from deep vulnerabilities”.

Any teacher who has marked the HSC will confirm that the vast majority of students from both independent and public sector schools receive a quality education.

Excellent teachers abound across sectors as do graduates, meeting Frew’s ideal of informed citizens who can critically engage with the world.

As principal of Warakirri College (western Sydney), I must also dispute Frew’s assertion that disadvantaged, vulnerable students with challenging behaviours are the “exclusive burden” of public schools.

First of all, students with challenging behaviours are not a burden. They are young people with the right to a quality education and a positive........

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