November
Private school fees to rise at more than double the rate of inflation
While some private schools are still sitting on their fee increases for 2026, parents should expect an average fee hike of 7 per cent next year.
Elite schools crack down on fat bikes over safety fears
The popularity of the bikes, recognisable by their powerful motors and fat wheels, is causing concern for some parents, pedestrians and school principals
October
The class signals that decide who gets promoted in Australia
Having a “bogan” accent or a “hick” degree can cruel leadership aspirations, according to a new report. Oh, and add watching reality TV and rugby league to that mix.
September
Daniel Libeskind’s antidote to hate: A $195m ‘open’ Jewish school
At a time of rising antisemitism, the man behind Berlin’s famous Jewish Museum says “going into the shadows” isn’t an option.
Bold experiment helping steer girls into non-traditional careers
Australian teenagers have among the narrowest career choices in the OECD. A school on the Mornington Peninsula is changing that.
Meet the kids already taking uni courses
Employers say an enthusiasm for life-long learning is top of their hiring wish list. These children are getting on the upskill bandwagon as early as possible.
August
Newington College hopes to have co-ed appeal thrown out
The private school defeated the old boys opposing their coeducation plans in May, but the Supreme Court ruling is now being appealed.
Scotch Old Boys told to ‘be vigilant’ as school hacked
Old Collegians have been told by the current principal to be wary of suspicious emails. Via a mass email, of course.
July
North Sydney wants to tax private schools, charge for NYE fireworks
The cash-strapped council wants to raise up to $1 million from non-government schools and charge $50 for the harbour fireworks.
Why we need a tax on private schools and health insurance
It is odd that many who talk about wanting more tax revenue to come from the GST would balk at the easiest services to broaden it to.
The key to Middle East peace
Readers’ letters on a two-state solution in the Middle East, Albanese’s lack of meetings with Trump, efficient courts, gender quotas in the Liberal Party, CBA’s relationship with NPS and Australia’s fuel security.
June
North West Shelf approval on the money, say AFR readers
The government’s decision, which has angered environmentalists, is overwhelmingly supported by our readers.
How this school is changing girls’ study of economics
A Melbourne private school has driven a remarkable turnaround in the number of students, particularly females, taking up the subject for year 12.
May
Newington co-ed fight raises questions about private school charities
When you count so many investment bankers and accounting partners among your old boys, it’s no wonder your trust structures get complicated.
Newington defeats old boy challenge to co-ed plans
Justice Guy Parker put a swift end to a challenge to stop girls attending the Sydney private school.
Unis should focus on the education of Australians, says Jason Clare
The minister says Labor’s policies on cutting student debt helped return the party to office. He wants to use its second term to deal with “unfinished business”.
Battle over all-boys private school hinges on just one word
An 1873 trust deed says Sydney’s Newington College was set up to educate ‘youth’. A group of former students says that means boys only.
Inside private school retreats trying to knock entitlement out of kids
A small number of schools have long-term residential programs designed to teach resilience, teamwork and compassion. But do they work?
March
Ballarat private school expels students over ‘hazing’
Ballarat Grammar principal Adam Heath said an internal investigation confirmed that older boarders had harmed younger boys in “completely unacceptable” behaviour.
Gina Rinehart jolts parents at ‘woke’ St Hilda’s
The country’s richest person continues to inspire at her Perth alma mater.