Though the education orthodoxy has long idolised international examples like Finland, it’s increasingly clear that this has been misguided. The so-called ‘Finnish miracle’ has turned out to be a disaster, with crushing declines in student outcomes over recent decades.

Rather than look to Finland, Australian policymakers should instead look to England. Over the past decade, the UK Government has led an impressive reform effort. Among the key accomplishments have been the implementation of a more ‘knowledge-based’ curriculum, universal screening of students’ early reading and maths skills, overhauling teacher training, elevating the importance of classroom management and in-school behaviour, and growing the ‘free school’ movement.

Results from international assessments show that England is on the right track. English students have been improving compared to Scottish and Welsh students and have been climbing the international rankings.

What can Australia learn from English education reform? Can the English experience be replicated Down Under? Why has England flourished when so many other countries have declined? Where does major reform need to begin in order for success?