New research into the systems, drivers and cycles of educational disadvantage – and how to mitigate them.
Australian students’ academic success is tightly wound up in factors including their socio-economic status, geographical location, and cultural background.
Certain communities or schools – where barriers and disparities often manifest in what are termed "concentrations of disadvantage" – bear a disproportionate burden of socio-economic challenges, leading to entrenched educational inequalities.
Addressing these concentrations of disadvantage is crucial for fostering a more equitable education system that allows all students to thrive academically and socially.
Dr Michele Bruniges AM, an experienced educator and leader in the field of education policy, has taken on the challenge of investigating the concentrations of disadvantage and exploring avenues for mitigation. As a Paul Ramsay Foundation Fellow and Industry Professor – Concentrations of Disadvantage at the UTS Centre for Social Justice & Inclusion, she delves into the complex factors underlying educational inequality.
Through rigorous research and analysis, Dr Bruniges aims to identify policy options and interventions that can effectively uplift disadvantaged students and communities. By understanding the impact of concentrations of disadvantage and advocating for evidence-based solutions, Dr Bruniges plans to make a meaningful contribution towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system in Australia.
As an educator, I believe it is important to encourage open discussion and debate, based on evidence, to shed more light on how we can improve outcomes for children and young people.
Dr Michele Bruniges
Industry Professor – Concentrations of Disadvantage
Targeted interventions and policies to mitigate concentrations of disadvantage
Concentrations of disadvantage in education often result from a combination of systemic inequalities and socio-economic factors. These disparities can lead to unequal access to resources, quality teaching, and educational opportunities, exacerbating the cycle of disadvantage for vulnerable students. Moreover, concentrations of disadvantage can perpetuate social stratification, limiting upward mobility and perpetuating intergenerational poverty.
Through evidence-based research and collaboration with key stakeholders, Dr. Bruniges's findings have the potential to inform the development of targeted interventions and policy initiatives aimed at mitigating concentrations of disadvantage. By advocating for equitable access to resources, tailored support mechanisms, and inclusive educational practices, her research can contribute to levelling the playing field for disadvantaged students and fostering a more inclusive and equitable education system.
Equity must be at the heart of the education sector. It’s essential for Australia’s future that everyone has the opportunity to use their skills and capabilities to tackle our biggest challenges. Dr Bruniges’ research will offer new thinking and policy recommendations that ensure every child has a fair chance to achieve success.
Amy Persson
Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor (Social Justice and Inclusion)
This research was funded by the Paul Ramsay Foundation. Any opinions, findings, or conclusions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.
