written into their curriculum. The government still partially funds private schools (some more than others), but they simply could not afford to fund all schools throughout Australia whilst still accommodating the diverse needs of students. Those who have visited underpriviledged schools (public, religious and private), will appreciate how the education dollar is stretched. Naturally, the alumni who bequeath money to private schools for the upkeep of their gardens would be better off spending their money elsewhere, but this is just a drop in the ocean and eliminating or boycotting private schooling is not the answer -- it would only over-burden an already over-stretched public school budget. I am a firm believer in sending my children to the closest public school. My three children attend public schools. Our local primary school is a very small and intimate school with less than 200 students, so my children aren't stuck in large classes. I have been very happy with the quality of education that my children receive. Also, because I've not chosen to send them to a "better" school far away, I don't have to drive them to school. I love the fact that they can ride their bikes to school. I think it is good for their independence and fitness. People trying to sell us things often tap into our insecurities as parents. We are told that if we don't go private that we are not getting the best education for our children. But this is a fallacy. In fact our choice