Education – Dr Oliver Hartwich

Once world-class, NZ’s education system is now a disaster. How do we fix it?

The challenge for the current generation of politicians is to have the courage to admit just how bad our education system has become. And then they need to have the courage to discard what is wrong and start again. [...]

System in freefall: why NZ children face education tragedy

Young New Zealanders have been let down by an education establishment which, over decades, has run a once world-leading education system into the ground. [...]

No trivial pursuit

close up of a book over white background

At the very least, schools should teach students how to read, write and calculate. Our children are wasting their potential if we do not equip them with these skills. [...]

Reading with the light switched on

We do not want to return to Jane Austen’s times when class and background determined a child’s success in education and life. [...]

Learning how to learn

By focusing on the organisational aspects of our education system, we are neglecting what is going on inside classrooms. How do children learn? Are our children learning? How can schools best teach students how to learn? [...]

Evidence-based policy and journalism

“What do we want? Evidence-based journalism. When do we want it? After switching off your prejudices.” [...]

Equality of esteem in tertiary education

Germany and Switzerland have long been famous for exporting cars, machinery and chemicals to all parts of the world. They are now becoming well-known as exporters of their dual education model. [...]

Centralism attacks Tomorrow’s Schools

In one area of public policy, New Zealand is much devolved: education. Since the rollout of Tomorrow’s Schools in 1989, our schools have enjoyed relative autonomy and self-governance. That may end if the Government implements recommendations from the Tomorrow's Schools Review taskforce. [...]

Revolutionary common sense

The counterrevolution started in Auckland last night. That is when the Initiative hosted British educator Katharine Birbalsingh for a dinner lecture in front of an audience of almost 300 teachers, school trustees, business leaders and politicians. [...]

London’s Michaela School is an inspiration for all

Michaela School’s approach may not be easily replicated. Nor would it be suited to every community. But its very success should be reason enough to ask if there are some lessons we might learn. [...]