The education system

By Andrew Fuller Welcome to the education system. A place of socialisation into the norms of society. Please leave all your beliefs and values in the port rack. For your convenience, we have hand picked textbooks which conveniently set out satisfactory opinions for you. What's that? You've got your own opinion? Feel free to say it, but remember there's no talking in class. Our handy education facilitators are here to teach you the right ways. We've trained them well in hiding their own values so there's no chance you'll get confused. Oh, I'm sure we've missed completely brainwashing a few, but never fear, if they want their jobs they'll keep their mouths shut. We have thoughtfully designed a lovely uniform for you to emphasise the importance of conformity. Don't forget to tuck your shirt in because you might begin to feel comfortable. We've devised a lovely curriculum. It's guaranteed to prepare you for a job that does not exist. We hope you find our institution satisfactory. If you have any complaints, you can disregard them or we can do it for you.
[Reprinted from Student Independent, produced by Brisbane high school students, 1995.]

From GLW issue 219