A recent survey by the Australian Education Union has revealed significant resource shortages in Australian schools for supporting students with disabilities. According to the survey, only 11% of principals felt they had adequate resources to meet the needs of these students, leading to nearly $1 billion being redirected from other funds this year alone. Most principals pointed to a need for more classroom assistance, with some also highlighting issues with insufficient hygiene facilities and appropriate learning spaces. The Union’s national president, Correna Haythorpe, urged both state and federal governments to address this disparity in funding and improve support mechanisms.

In another development, the National Association of Head Teachers in the UK has expressed concerns over the current Ofsted inspection system, describing it as harmful and calling for changes. The criticism follows the recent suicide of headteacher Ruth Perry, which was linked to a negative Ofsted report. Although the Department for Education recognises the work of headteachers, it has no immediate plans to alter the existing system of single-phrase judgments. An emergency motion at the NAHT’s annual conference will discuss potential reforms. Additionally, both the NAHT and the Trades Union Congress are advocating for significant changes to the inspection regime to better support school leaders and ensure more effective accountability.