Too often, student behaviour isn't great, the issue is acute in some schools and can seem intractable. Many theories have arisen as to why kids are misbehaving or simply refusing to show up, but it’s safe to say these behaviours have a psychological underpinning.
   Children who refuse to adhere to any kind of rule and are routinely disruptive or out of control are more than likely acting out. Read more

UNSW Business School found that certain schools are more likely to exclude lower-performing students - a move which would enhance a school’s overall test results.
   Private schools were found to be more likely to manipulate their testing pool and schools with lower initial test scores relative to other schools teaching similar student bodies show higher rates of non-participation in NAPLAN tests following the public release of performance data. Read more

Maths anxiety is widespread and often manifests as feelings of tension, nervousness, or fear when engaging with mathematics. This anxiety can start as early as in primary school and has long-lasting effects, leading to a cycle of fear, avoidance and poor performance in maths.
   But by nurturing curiosity and teaching self-regulated learning, educators can help students overcome their fears and develop a genuine interest in mathematics. Read more

‘Systematic phonics’ (or ‘structured literacy’) underpins the first two stages of reading development, paving the way for students to master the remaining skills.
   Phonics involves teaching children the sounds of letters, or groups of letters, to effectively ‘decode’ whole words - allowing learners to tackle words they have yet to come across. Around the world, this method is replacing more traditional approaches. Read more

School readiness refers to the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed by a child, so that when they commence formal schooling they can successfully engage in learning. In development for over two years, the School ReadY program is informed by a contemporary understanding of the science of early childhood learning and brain development. It focusses on building success in three developmental domains.
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