Wed Sep 25 04:52:46 UTC 2024: ## “Sector Blind” Schooling Resource Standard Criticized for Ignoring Cost Differences Between Public and Private Schools

**Sydney, Australia** – A new critique of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), the federal government framework for “fully funding” public and private schools, argues that its “sector blind” approach fails to acknowledge the significant cost differences between the two systems.

Independent researcher Barbara Preston, in a recent article published by Australian news outlet Crikey, highlights the discrepancies in financial needs and responsibilities between public and private schools.

“The SRS, derived from the Gonski reforms, is ‘sector blind’, which may seem politically appealing, but it ignores the reality of Australia’s dual schooling system,” Preston states.

She points to several key differences:

* **Student Selection:** Private schools can select students, while public schools must accept all, including those who may be disruptive or require specialized support.
* **Scholarship Programs:** Private schools often offer scholarships, sometimes with public support, drawing away high-achieving students from public schools.
* **Enrolment Fluctuations:** Public schools bear the burden of fluctuating enrollments, leading to overcrowded or under-enrolled schools, while private schools can adjust enrollment numbers to maintain optimal student ratios.
* **Teacher Development:** Private schools primarily recruit teachers from the public system, contributing to teacher shortages and placing a heavier financial burden on public schools.

Preston argues that these factors, which significantly impact costs, are not factored into the SRS, leading to an unfair distribution of resources.

“This pattern of favoring private schools is not new,” she states, pointing to historical examples of public funding being directed towards elite private institutions.

Preston’s critique calls for a re-evaluation of the SRS, emphasizing the need to consider the unique cost profiles of public and private schools to ensure equitable funding distribution.

“A truly fair and equitable system must acknowledge the realities of the Australian education landscape,” she concludes.

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