Schools
Is it compulsory for my child to attend school?
Any child between the ages 6 and 15 years old must to go to school. Children usually start school when they are 4 or 5 and often continue until they are 17 or 18 years old in preparation for university or other further education.
Primary school caters for children under the age of 12 or 13 years old and runs from kindergarten to grade 6. Older children go to high school (or ‘secondary school’) which runs from grade 7 to grade 12.
What qualifications will my child obtain through school?
If your child completes kindergarten through to grade 10 they are awarded a School Certificate which is the base qualification obtained through schools. The School Certificate generally allows your child to enter further education institutions such a TAFE or community college.
In grade 12, students sit their Higher School Certificate (HSC) which is a range of examinations testing an assortment of subjects. The results of the examinations go towards a Universities Admission Indicator (UAI) which is a numerical measure of a student's overall academic achievement in the HSC. The UAI is calculated solely for use by University institutions, either on its own or in conjunction with other selection criteria, to rank and select school leavers for admission.
What type of schools are available in Australia?
Government (or Public) schools provide free education, however, most schools ask for a voluntary contribution to enhance the school’s educational and sporting programmes. Payment is a matter for decision by parents. There are additional educational materials or services that parents can be expected to provide or pay the school to provide. Parents may need to provide their children with pencils, pens, textbooks and school uniforms where appropriate.
Students holding temporary visas may be required to pay full school fees. You will need to check with individual schools for details.
Non-government (or Private) schools charge fees, and they may have a religious affiliation or a particular educational philosophy. Parents who want to find out about private education should make an appointment with the relevant non-government educational authority or contact the selected school directly.
How do I enrol my child in a school?
To enrol your child in a school you’ll need tp contact the school by telephone or in person. As part of the enrolment process you will need show your visa or entry to Australia documents, proof of your child's date of birth, and any papers including school reports relating to their previous education. You may also need to show immunisation documents.
How do I find a local school?
To find a local school, visit the Australian Government’s Education Portal: www.education.gov.au