I read the article as being for or against selective schools?

My personal experience makes me "for selective schools" I never went to one. WA had Modern School selective in as much as to gain entrance you passed a state set exam on one of two occasions, year six and year nine. Exam papers were published after each exam. I wisely decided I was not interested in higher maths and languages where points for entrance were highest. I went to East Perth Tech High, a trade school.
I enjoyed the education, if not the grossness evident,I and others who were interested in learning, protected ourselves from bullies by supporting each other.
I had compatriots who went to Mod. and while being envious of the environment of their school never did I feel envious of their opportunity. I could shape metal and wood, they could speak French, so? I didn't feel inferior.
Private schools were where you sent duds, they needed mothering, not for me!
I envied the companionship they gained at Uni. but found it with them socially thru idea exchange and sport.
Although not "one of them" I'm for opportunity schools as they are different, not better.
The Mod school blokes could never have survived the education I had.
my 2 cents.
fluff