This is a big year for Australian education. State and federal governments are working out a major agreement on schools reform and the question of funding looms large.
There have been disturbing reports of students making sexual moaning noises at teachers and other students. This includes students in both high school and primary school.
From keeping up routines, to making contact with new teachers, there are many things families can do to lay the groundwork for a more positive school year ahead.
In response to threats, we learn to avoid challenge and comply with external rules (instead of wondering how systems can be improved). We protect our feelings and restrict our thoughts to what’s safe.
For over 20 years, I have researched and treated children sleep problems. The research suggests changing sleep patterns over the summer break does not have to be a problem.
We uncovered some significant and often devastating insights into how young Australians – particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds – have experienced the ‘push’ towards university.
The new government needs to tread carefully as it looks to reintroduce standardised testing. A one size fits all approach to testing students can have negative consequences for everyone involved.