…. four days into my tour of Australia. I’ve so far worked with trainee teachers, academics, and school teachers, and given interviews to the press.
The phrase ‘she’ll be right’ , as frequently uttered by Ken Owen, who is ushering me around the educational delights of Melbourne, sums up the positive attitude prevalent in most people you meet here.
Yes, they’re facing worries about public sector cuts, though, due to the strength of the Australian economy, not as bad as the UK. Even so, you do get the feeling of optimism here which isn’t just due to spring appearing.
If they have concerns here, it’s that the educational policies of ‘the mother country’ (the UK) will be imported here. And with some justification. Why change what seems to be working pretty well, in favour of a system that’s already been proven to have limited leverage, in terms of results?
They’re undertaking a National Curriculum Review, which most academics seem to think will result in a British-style system. No one is thrilled about the prospect, because the benefits don’t seem to outweigh the downsides.
But you do get the feeling that she’ll be right, whatever happens.
I love this country.
