Get ready for an insightful journey as we dive into the SMH Schools Summit 2026, where the future of education takes center stage! Today, we're bringing you live updates from a conference that promises to spark debates and inspire change. With a lineup of influential speakers, including NSW Education Minister Prue Car, we're about to uncover some groundbreaking insights.
But here's where it gets controversial... The focus of today's summit is the rollout of gifted education in NSW public schools. Minister Car, who first announced this policy at the 2024 Herald summit, is set to deliver a powerful speech on this topic. She'll be joined by Herald editor Jordan Baker, adding an extra layer of expertise to the discussion.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about gifted education. We'll also hear from other education leaders, like Stephen Gniel, CEO of ACARA, who will talk about the evolving methods of teaching math in the early years. Plus, a panel discussion with Paul Martin and Dallas McInerney will delve into assessment practices.
In a world where knowledge is power, how do we ensure every student has access to the tools they need to thrive? That's the million-dollar question, and it's one we aim to explore today. So, buckle up and join us as we navigate the exciting world of education reform!
How Do We Prepare Students for a Changing World?
In the wake of recent events, like the Bondi terror attack, and the ever-advancing field of artificial intelligence, the CEO of ACARA, Stephen Gniel, has a bold message. He believes that content alone is insufficient to prepare young Australians for the complexities of the future.
Speaking at the summit, Gniel emphasized the need to prepare students not just for assessments, but for a world that is unpredictable and ever-changing. He highlighted the importance of strong literacy and numeracy skills in the early years, followed by a deep understanding of various disciplines, along with the capabilities to adapt to rapid social and technological changes.
Gniel also touched on the importance of financial and consumer literacy, stating that children must be prepared for their future responsibilities and the challenges of the modern economy. He further emphasized the role of curriculum in promoting social cohesion, especially in light of recent events, and the need to address anti-Semitic thought and action.
In the Age of AI, Knowledge Matters More Than Ever
Continuing the discussion, NSW Education Secretary Murat Dizdar delves into the role of artificial intelligence in education. He poses an intriguing question: Should we be discussing whether to use AI, or should we be focused on what problems we're trying to solve with it, and what aspects of education should never be automated?
Dizdar believes that AI has a place in education, but it should always be in the service of learning. He emphasizes that AI can never replace the judgment and relationships that teachers bring to the classroom, nor can it capture the human nature of education.
In an age where AI is prevalent, Dizdar argues that knowledge becomes even more crucial. Students must learn to critically evaluate AI outputs, ask insightful questions, detect errors, and generate original ideas. It's a skill set that will be invaluable in the future.
Equity and Excellence: The Central Question in Australian Education
NSW Education Secretary Murat Dizdar poses a thought-provoking question: How do we deliver an equitable education grounded in excellence? He believes that the future of schooling lies not in a multitude of initiatives, but in those that drive coherence and focus.
Dizdar emphasizes that improvement comes from sequencing and execution, not from adding more to an already burdened system. He calls for patience and a focus on what works, rather than asking schools to sprint a marathon.
Early University Offers: A Threat to Equity?
NSW Education Minister Prue Car has expressed strong concerns about the rapid expansion of university early entry schemes. She believes that these schemes may undermine the principles of the state's ATAR system, creating an inequitable playing field.
Car is troubled by reports that a significant number of students are securing university places through early offers and extracurricular achievements, rather than relying on their final ATAR result. She argues that not all students have equal access to extracurricular activities, which can strengthen an early application, creating an unfair advantage for some.
Car also highlights the potential shift of academic pressure onto year 11 students and confirms that the NSW Education Standards Authority is working to strengthen the HSC as the state rolls out a new curriculum.
Expanding Gifted Education: A Step Towards Equity
In her powerful speech, NSW Education Minister Prue Car declared that "postcode should never determine a child's opportunity." She unveiled a sweeping expansion of high potential and gifted education programs across NSW, acknowledging the historical popularity of selective schooling in the state.
However, Car emphasized that this concentration has limited access to advanced learning opportunities for many students. The new Inspire program aims to change that by providing structured extension opportunities in academics, leadership, sport, and the creative and performing arts in every public school in NSW.
Car stressed that selective schools and opportunity classes are no longer the only routes for gifted students seeking excellence. The new program will offer more options for extension classes, regardless of whether a student receives a place in a selective school or opportunity class.
The Power of Education: A Herald Perspective
Herald editor Jordan Baker addressed the summit, emphasizing the transformative power of education and the importance of policies that allow every child to reach their full potential. She highlighted the confusion that parents often face when making school choices and the reliance on the Herald for information and guidance.
Baker emphasized that choice should be available to all, regardless of resources, and advocated for policies that ensure every child in NSW has access to high-quality schooling. She believes in the power of education to transform lives, a sentiment shared by everyone in the room.
Expanding Gifted Education Programs: A Step Towards Equity
One of the key issues at today's summit is the expansion of gifted education programs for public school students. Herald education editor Christopher Harris reports that over 750,000 students in comprehensive public schools will have access to specialist gifted programs this year.
This major overhaul is designed to ensure that the needs of high-potential students are met beyond prestigious selective options. The shake-up comes amid intensifying competition for selective places and a growing trend of parents opting for Catholic and private schools over local public comprehensive schools.
Education Minister Prue Car first revealed plans for universal gifted education in public schools two years ago, and today, she will detail how the new Inspire program will deliver enrichment streams, extension classes, and STEM programs.
So, what do you think? Is expanding gifted education programs a step towards equity? Or does it raise other concerns? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Education is a complex topic, and your insights are invaluable.
