International maths and science test results highlight funding needs

AUSTRALIA – New results on Australian student performance in maths and science highlight the need to increase overall school funding, said the Australian Education Union (AEU).

The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) assessment conducted in 2006 showed that while Australian year four students performed above international averages in maths and science, and year eight students were on par in maths, achievement in year eight science had declined.

AEU Federal president, Angelo Gavrielatos said the TIMMS results should be viewed alongside the OECD report, Education at a Glance, released in 2008 that revealed Australia is ranked second last compared to other OECD nations for direct public expenditure on public institutions.

“If Australia is to remain competitive in a global market the Federal Government must properly fund our public schools,” Mr Gavrielatos said.

“These results also highlight the need for greater targeted funding for Indigenous students.

“Indigenous students scored 90 points lower in year four than the average of non-Indigenous counterparts.

“The government announcement of a new National Partnership Agreement targeting schools serving disadvantaged communities was vital for the 15 per cent of schools that will benefit, however the overall funding for public schools falls far short of what is needed to ensure a high quality education for all Australian students.