The Old School/ New School: Transforming school education for the 21st century report found that educators, policy makers, parents and industry should work together if the next generation is to be ready for further study, work and adult life.

The NSW Business Chamber report mentioned shared responsibility with government, educators, parents and students and says a ‘new school system’ would place emphasis on technologies, inclusive education and evidence informed practice.

Chamber regional manager Joe Townsend said while change would not happen overnight, it was important for the future.

“Here in the New England North West we have many great schools, passionate and dedicated teachers, and parents who aspire to help their children succeed,” he said. “Together with education influencers, policymakers, parents, the business community and young people, the NSW Business Chamber has come up with a vision for the New School system of the 21st century.”

New England P&C chair Rachael Sowden welcomed the report.

“A whole revamp is a fantastic opportunity and why can’t we shake it up?,” she said. “Why can’t we have an education revolution that is an education revolution and looks at project based-learning and collaborative student focused learning that is deep and meaningful for students and that is real world and not based on 19^th century learning?

“I applaud them for doing this as a parent, as a wider P&C voice but my only criticism is that not more parents were able to have a say.”

Dr Sowden said now was the time to have a “wider discussion”

“This is why trade training centres are set up in schools to allow for better engaged kids from school to work,” she said. “I happen to be on of those parents who’s kids have Lana Hardman (at Duval) as a career’s advisor and it people like her that do the hard yards and make sure kids are supported in those interim years to get from school to work.”