Dean’s Lecture Series: Professor Pasi Sahlberg Advocates for Holistic, Equitable Education Reform
Renowned Finnish educator and policy advisor Professor Pasi Sahlberg used the fourth Dean’s Lecture of 2024 to call for change in global education reform, equity in schools, and for holistic approaches to education policy.
Pasi Sahlberg is a professor in Educational Leadership at the Faculty and has made extensive contributions to global education reforms and improving schools worldwide.
The event opened with Deputy Dean Professor Larissa McLean Davies, who extended a warm welcome to special guests, including former Deans Professor Kwong Lee Dow and Professor Field Rickards.
A Call for Change in Global Education Reform
Professor Sahlberg began by addressing the declining student learning outcomes on an international scale, arguing for a shift from competition-driven education models toward a more equitable and holistic approach. Highlighting trends in global education reform—including the rise of test-based accountability and parents’ ability to choose their child’s education—Professor Sahlberg questioned the effectiveness of these measures in fostering equitable learning environments.
Drawing from extensive data, he emphasised that focusing solely on academic performance can exacerbate inequality. He called for a renewed commitment to education policies that prioritise student well-being, relationships, and parental involvement—key factors that significantly impact learning outcomes.
Australian Schools and the Push for Equity
Drawing on his recent experiences visiting schools across Australia, Professor Sahlberg spoke about the challenges facing the nation's education system. He highlighted the disparity between public and private schools and the concentration of disadvantage in certain areas, particularly among Indigenous students and those from socio-economically marginalised communities.
The system is not designed for everyone
Professor Sahlberg stated, urging education leaders to focus on equity and localised solutions to better support disadvantaged students.
His call to “do the right thing” in education reform resonated with the audience, many of whom were educators, Principles, school leaders and policymakers striving for positive change.
Critique of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement
Professor Sahlberg expressed concerns about the upcoming Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, set to replace the current National School Reform Agreement in 2025. While the agreement includes targets aimed at reducing disparities in educational achievement—such as improving NAPLAN scores—Professor Sahlberg cautioned that such targets could inadvertently widen the achievement gap.
He urged policymakers to align the agreement more closely with the principles of the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration, stressing the importance of addressing not just academic performance but also the well-being and development of the whole child.
Advocating for a Holistic Approach
Professor Sahlberg said a more holistic approach, one that prioritises student-teacher relationships, well-being, and a sense of belonging, is crucial to repairing Australia’s education system. He advocated for structural changes within schools, such as shorter lessons and incorporating more physical activity, to foster a healthier learning environment. He also introduced the concept of “teacher looping,” where the same teacher follows a group of students for multiple years.
To close, Professor Sahlberg called on educators, policymakers, and communities to collaborate in building a more inclusive and supportive education system, stressing that this is a critical moment for the future of Australian education.
A recording of the Lecture is available to watch on YouTube.