Gonski calls for school shake-up

AUSTRALIA’S school curriculum has failed a generation of children and must focus on stretching individual students to their maximum capabilities, according to a new report.

More money is being pumped into schools than ever before but the country is falling backwards in international rankings.

“Our goal should be to be heading in precisely the opposite direction,” Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told reporters in Sydney yesterday. “There’s a lot riding on this.”

The report, prepared by businessman David Gonski, said student outcomes must go beyond meeting age or yearbased expectations.

Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham said not only were more students performing at a lower level, but fewer were performing at a very advanced level.

“We need to shift that (bell) curve back in the right direction,” he said.

Senator Birmingham said teachers needed the tools and the time to ensure students reached their maximum abilities, rather than “bowling down the middle” in managing their classrooms.

Mr Gonski wants progressive learning steps set out in each subject. He also wants teachers to prioritise core literacy and numeracy for students before they turn eight, and ensure a smooth transition between early childhood learning and school.

Federal, state and territory education ministers will meet on Friday to be briefed by Mr Gonski.