Waiting for Gonski

This insightful book explores the failures of Australia's education system and presents compelling solutions to address these challenges. Waiting for Gonski offers a path forward.

Written by educators Tom Greenwell and Chris Bonnor, Waiting for Gonski delves into the shortcomings of Australia's educational system and presents innovative solutions aimed at reforming it. The authors explore the reasons behind the failures in education, posing critical questions about the path taken and the necessary steps for improvement. The narrative highlights the urgent need for change in a system that has continually let down its students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Gonski Review, commissioned by Prime Minister Julia Gillard and led by David Gonski, was initially seen as a beacon of hope for reform. Released in 2010, the review identified significant flaws in school education policy and drew attention to the widening gap between the academic achievements of disadvantaged children and their more affluent counterparts. Gonski's proposal for targeted funding based on student needs was a promising solution that aimed to bridge these disparities and enhance overall educational outcomes.

Despite the initial optimism, the situation has only deteriorated over the past decade. Educational achievements in Australia have continued to decline, and there remains a stark correlation between social disadvantage and poor academic performance. In Waiting for Gonski, Greenwell and Bonnor critically analyze why the proposed reforms have faltered and offer practical strategies to revitalize the education system, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.