The Great Education Divide

This chapter investigates the shifting role of education within the contemporary landscape of increasing socio-economic inequalities. It delves into how the human capital discourse is redefining the concept of quality education and is influencing policy reforms in liberal economies like Australia. By critically examining the growing trend of applying market-based principles to education-such as policies promoting school choice, benchmarking practices, and reporting procedures-the chapter questions the effectiveness of these approaches in achieving equitable access, participation, and outcomes. To ground these discussions in context, the chapter turns to Middle Park High School as a case in point. Through the experiences of both teachers and the principal, the chapter highlights the tangible impacts of these policies driven by a neoliberal logic. This in-depth analysis reveals how these reforms shape educational opportunities and outcomes on the ground.