Don't say the F-word!

The result? In many classrooms talented and hard-working children soon work out that they don't have to push themselves as hard because all are winners and that everybody is either “established” or “consolidating”.

The benefits of having a pass and fail system are obvious. Not only are there winners and losers in the real world, but if failure is picked up in the early primary years, especially in literacy and numeracy, then there is a much better chance of fixing the problem.

It is also true that those countries that outperform Australia in international maths and science tests have high-stakes exams and tests and students and parents are given a clear and precise indication of levels of ability.

In stronger performing countries talent and effort are rewarded and there are also consequences for failure. In countries such as Singapore, Japan and the Netherlands, not only are students streamed in terms of ability, but under-performing students are identified and made to improve.

The federal Education Minister, Dr Brendan Nelson, has told the states and territories that if they want the next round of funding, they have to get rid of fuzzy, feel-good report cards and introduce letter grades and student rankings.

Last month, as a result of federal pressure, Premier Bob Carr announced a dramatic overhaul of reporting practices in NSW schools. One wonders how Minister Kosky will respond.