Huge divide between students and parents on teacher fairness at Queensland schools

Teachers at every Queensland state school have been rated on how they treat their students, and exclusive Courier-Mail analysis reveals some shock findings.

We’ve listed the Qld schools where students say they're treated unfairly.

Queensland parents and students are sharply divided over whether teachers treat students fairly, with an analysis revealing it is the most divisive issue in state schools.

Only 44 of Queensland’s 1126 state primary and high schools managed a perfect score from both groups when surveyed on teacher fairness, The Courier-Mail’s analysis of last year’s school annual reports found.

The analysis found the question “Teachers treat students fairly at this school” was easily the most divisive topic surveyed.

The data shows parents are significantly happier than their children on the issue.

While 147 schools achieved a 100 per cent ‘yes’ from parents in the annual survey, only 93 managed full agreement from students.

The school with the least satisfied parents was Cunnamulla P – 12 State School, where only 28 per cent of respondents agreed teachers treated students fairly.

Jericho State School, Bwgcolman Community School and Croydon State School also had less than half of parent respondents in agreement.

Students were even harsher. At Calen District State College, only 13 per cent of respondents agreed teachers treated them fairly — the lowest result from students in the state.

Huge gaps between parent and student perceptions were also exposed. At Benaraby State School, 90 per cent of parents said students were treated fairly, but only 22 per cent of students agreed.

Coominya State School had full agreement from parents who responded, but only 33 per cent of students.

Queensland Association of State School Principals president Pat Murphy said data provided in the annual school reports is taken seriously.

“Principals and teachers are deeply committed to ensuring every child is valued and supported. In practice, treating students fairly does not mean treating all students the same,” he said.

“It means recognising each child as an individual and responding to their unique needs, circumstances and learning style.

Mr Murphy said effective leadership requires looking at the “bigger picture” and making decisions that are “fair and appropriate” rather than identical in circumstances such as addressing behaviour or academic needs.

“Principals use these survey results to reflect on school culture, strengthen communication with families and students, and continue building trust.

“The goal remains consistent: every child feeling safe, respected and supported to reach their potential.”

Originally published as Huge divide between students and parents on teacher fairness at Queensland schools