Improving fairness in secondary schools is crucial for giving every student an equal chance to succeed. From better funding to inclusive curriculums, how do you think education can best be improved for all?
Education should of course be an equal opportunity for all students, no matter their background.
But many schools – particularly those in underprivileged areas – still face challenges in providing fair and equal learning experiences for every student. Many often struggle with limited resources, overcrowded classrooms, and a lack of access to essential services like tutoring or mental health support.
As a result, students in these environments may not receive the same quality of education as their peers in more affluent areas, thus creating a real gap in opportunity and achievement. Addressing such disparities is key to ensuring that all students – regardless of background – have an equal shot at success.
So we’re asking what you think can be done to improve secondary schools and make education fairer for everyone? Possible ideas to make a more level playing field include:
1. Increase Funding for Schools in Underprivileged Areas
One of the most crucial steps is to ensure that schools in poorer areas receive the funding they need. When schools lack the resources – such as books, computers, or even basic facilities – students are at a significant disadvantage. Adequate funding would allow these schools to provide the same quality of education as those in wealthier neighbourhoods.
2. More Training for Teachers on Inclusive Education
Of course, teachers are the foundation of any school, and training them to meet the needs of all students is key to improving fairness. More professional development on inclusive teaching practices would help educators better support students with diverse learning needs, including those with disabilities, English language learners, or students from different cultural backgrounds.
3. Implement Standardised Assessments that Fairly Measure Progress
Standardised testing often plays a central role in measuring student success. To make these assessments fairer, it’s essential that they are designed in ways that accurately reflect each student’s progress, without bias or unfair disadvantages. Tests should be designed to assess growth rather than just raw scores.
4. Ensure Access to Affordable Tutoring or Academic Support
Not all students have equal access to tutoring or extra help when they struggle with their studies. Schools should provide affordable or even free tutoring to all students in need, ensuring that extra academic support is available to those who would benefit from it, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
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5. Promote a Curriculum that Represents Diverse Cultures, Histories, and Perspectives
A curriculum that reflects a wide variety of cultures, histories, and worldviews can help all students feel seen and heard. By including a more inclusive range of perspectives, schools can help foster an environment where every student feels that their background and experiences are valued.
6. Offer More Extracurricular Activities for All Students
Extracurricular activities – such as sports, music, and clubs – are vital for student development. However, too often they’re seen as privileges available to students from wealthier families. Schools should work to make sure that all students have equal opportunities, regardless of their financial situation.
7. Reduce Class Sizes for More Personalized Attention
Large class sizes can prevent teachers from providing the individual attention that many students need. Reducing class sizes allows teachers to give more personalised feedback and support to students, making it easier to identify and address their unique strengths and challenges.
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8. Provide Mental Health Services for All Students
Mental health is just as important as academic achievement, and it’s vital that schools provide services to support students’ mental and emotional well-being. By offering counselling and mental health resources, schools can create a more supportive environment where students from all backgrounds feel safe and cared for.
9. Increase Access to Technology and Digital Learning Tools
In today’s world, technology plays a major role in education. However, not every student has equal access to computers or digital learning tools. Schools should ensure all students have access to the technology they need to succeed, whether that means providing laptops or making sure digital resources are available in classrooms.
10. Foster a More Inclusive School Environment
Finally, schools must actively address bullying, discrimination, and exclusion. Creating a truly inclusive environment means working to eliminate these harmful behaviours and ensuring that every student feels safe, respected, and part of the school community.
What Do You Think?
There is clearly a no one-size-fits-all solution to improving secondary schools. But what do you think should be prioritised above all else to get the ball rolling? Take our poll above and expand on your decision in the comments below.
