Main findings briefly

Canada has been much more successful in creating schools that truly embody the values both Australia and Canada share; schools that are anchored in their local communities where all students are able to achieve their full potential.

Ontario illustrates the achievability and attractiveness of a common framework of resourcing and regulation which applies to all schools. The Ontario model promotes inclusion, equity and socio-economic diversity and enhances student achievement. It’s also affordable. The common framework in Ontario includes both faith-based and government schools.

In Ontario secular and faith–based schools are fully publicly funded. They are prohibited from charging fees and are required to serve students in their local area. Because all schools are prohibited from charging fees and applying academic entrance tests, they are equally accessible to all families. Because all schools are funded on the same basis, none can use superior resourcing to entice families away from neighbouring schools.

Quebec has similar policy settings to Australia and the same problems, but an enterprising group of parents have created a powerful movement (École Ensemble – School together), for change. Their goal is the implementation of a Plan for a Common School Network.

British Columbia regulates fees in some non-government schools, but others still enjoy significant resource advantages and can actively or passively exclude disadvantaged students.