Since April 2010 an independent panel led by businessman David Gonski has been looking into the way schools are funded.

It is the first time since 1973 that funding arrangements for all schools - including public and private schools in all states - have been reviewed.

On February 20 the Federal Government will release the findings of the independent review - referred to as the Gonski report - as well as its response to the recommendations.

In the Illawarra, NSW Teachers Federation regional organiser Nicole Calnan said she was hoping for a fairer system of funding for all schools.

‘‘It’s been a long process so we’re looking forward to the findings and what David Gonski and the panel have found,’’ she said.

‘‘Given that the current formula for funding schools has been found to be flawed ... we expect that there will have to be a change in the way that schools are funded and that this will deliver a greater share of funds to public schools.’’

She said an increase in funding could help reduce class sizes, create more support for students with disabilities and boost public school facilities.

In previous stages of the review, Education Minister Peter Garrett has said the existing system lets down some students, particularly in public schools, so the education community is braced for big changes.

Ms Calnan denied the review would reignite a debate about public versus private school funding, saying the focus should be on providing a fair system for all students.

‘‘I think we’ve moved past the debate on public versus private and this is about ensuring that the needs of all students are met. If that means more money has to go to the public education system because that is where the needs are, then I think the general population would be okay with that.’’

Once the report is released, Ms Calnan said the Teachers Federation would focus on making sure changes recommended by the Gonski report were implemented.

‘‘As with any government review, just because they’ve got a review that says they should do something doesn’t mean they will do it,’’ she said.

‘‘It will be up to the constituents to talk to their MPs as to why these recommendations should be implemented.’’