The benefits of early years education last a lifetime

New research shows that early years education can help children from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve more of their potential, easing their transition into school and society.

Should more Aussie kids study Mandarin?

The number of students studying Mandarin in Australian schools nearly doubled between 2008 and 2015, but very few pupils from non-Chinese background will ever become fluent in the language.

Narrow VET training sells students short

The crisis in Australia’s training sector means TAFEs need to develop their own courses tailored to an unpredictable future.

Schools need smart windows more than air conditioning

Australian classrooms are recording high levels of carbon dioxide and other pollutants, says UNSW Built Environment Professor Mat Santamouris.

Should mobile phones be banned in schools?

Banning mobile phones in school may seem sensible, but research and similar moves elsewhere suggest a blanket ban may introduce some problems.

Three ways for universities to outwit disruption

To remain relevant, Australia’s universities will need to transform into very different entities, with new business models that foster innovation and embrace the interconnection technology offers. And they will need to do so quickly.

Education is more than a job ticket

Businesses want students who are ready to step from schools and universities into a job, but education must also create informed citizens and well-rounded individuals, just as it has in the past.

Early-years education online: the rise of the virtual preschool

Virtual preschools might be a welcome alternative for home-schoolers and other families who want to keep their children ‘close by’ during their early years, rather than sending them to state or private institutions.

Interaction therapy can help disruptive kids in school

UNSW Sydney has partnered with a network of public primary schools and preschools in south-western Sydney to establish one of the world’s first school-based clinics to provide evidence-based early intervention to young children with severe disruptive behaviour.

Helping impatient students stay in school

A student’s patience can have a significant impact on their educational outcomes, and understanding its benefits can help inform good policy for Australia’s school system.

Parents and teachers need to get along

School staff need to manage difficult parents and identify when more support is required, but with time all parents can make a positive contribution to the wider school community.

Opening pre-school to all children

Fewer than a quarter of young children from low-income families used preschool or childcare services in 2017. Here’s how the government can create an effective, affordable early childhood sector for Australia.