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Why are Naplan results not improving?

Aug 04, 2016

Academics have started to assess the detail in the Naplan results. Although overall there doesn't appear to be much difference in scores now compared to students in 2008, there has been some significant increases, particularly in Queensland. Scores for children in Yr 3 this year showed a huge improvement compared to 2008. Interestingly, Queensland received the biggest increase in federal funding betwen 2008 and 2016 (34%).

Overall, though, why aren't we seeing progress? Hinz and O'Connell from Victoria University suggest: 

  • Schools in the poorest socio economic areas have the worst results - so they need funding increases.
  • Often children from the poorest backgrounds miss out on early education, so they miss important foundations.
  • Naplan of course is limited, in that it tests only a few areas, and emphasis on these could inhibit overall learning.

Read the full article here


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Jun 12, 2026

Rich Schools, Poor Schools

Australia’s schooling system is among the most highly segregated in the OECD. Public schools educate the majority of disadvantaged students, while there is concentrated advantage in private schools.

This situation can be attributed, in large part, to our school funding arrangements. Recent research 

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Jun 11, 2026

Hurry if you haven't sorted Book Week

As Term 3 is almost upon us, if you haven't sorted a Book Week incursion, hurry! If you're flexible with dates, you might be able to swing one of our great shows.

See our Book Week Shows here.

Image: Something Special Live - Available NSW, QLD, ACT,VIC,SA & WA

Livestream version available nationally

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Jun 10, 2026

Naidoc Week in 2026

The next cultural day to celebrate nationally is NAIDOC week. This year on 5-12 July, when all Australian schools are on holiday. The likely time schools could celebrate is the first week of July, when some states are still at school.

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