‘I had a recurring dream I was shot in the head’ said one male principle. Lucas Walsh, Christine Grice, Jane Wilkinson and Tim Delany report on the current position in Australian schools. Principals’ jobs have always been stressful, involving a constant juggle to meet the needs...
Teenagers aren’t lazy—their brains are wired to run later. New neuroscience explains why early school start times clash with teens' sleep, mental health, and learning, and why some Australian schools are rethinking the school day. If your teenager struggles to get out of bed before school,...
Is it only just an increase in sick days? How can Australia fix this? ask researchers Jordana Hunter, Amy Haywood and Molly Chapman On a typical school day in Australia last year, about 11% of students were absent. In 2014, the figure was 7%. Two in...
As Australian families prepare for the start of a new school year, many parents are asking a quiet but important question: will this classroom really work for my child? For families of children with disability, developmental delay, autism or additional learning needs, inclusion is about more...
New Australian research shows that raising the school-leaving age reduced child maltreatment and emergency hospital visits. Here’s why staying in school matters for vulnerable teens. When staying at school protects children Keeping teenagers engaged in school doesn’t just improve learning outcomes — it can also protect their...
A new study shows little kids who count on their fingers do better at maths, reports Jennifer Way and Katherin Cartwright If you ask a small child a simple maths question, such as 4+2, they may count on their fingers to work it out. Should we encourage...
A government review wants schools to respond to bullying complaints within 2 days. Is this fair? What else do we need? Asks Matthew White and Paul Kidson Recently, the federal government released its rapid review into school bullying. Authored by clinical psychologist Charlotte Keating and suicide prevention...
As the new school year approaches, many families feel the familiar mix of excitement, nerves and long to-do lists. From resetting routines to packing lunchboxes and navigating technology, the return to school can feel overwhelming — but experts say it’s often the small, practical changes that...
Teachers play a vital role in every community, a fact widely acknowledged by the public. Yet recent research shows a looming shortage, especially in rural areas, as many teachers leave – or at least consider leaving – the profession. Why is this happening? A new study, Perceptions...
Adults like to talk about ‘big school’. This can make the change seem scary for some children, writes Kelly Simpson. Starting school is a time of great anticipation and excitement for young children and families. The buildup can last for months as children go to orientation...
