Schools--General

Australia has a system of state schools and a system of private schools, religious and secular, which include a number of special needs schools. The states and the Commonwealth government all contribute to school funding.

Schooling in Australia starts with a kindergarten or preparatory year followed by 12 years of primary and secondary school. In the final year of secondary school you can study for a government-endorsed certificate that is recognised by all Australian universities and vocational education and training institutions. Every state and territory in Australia has a different education system, and therefore a different leaving credential. There are also many government and non-government schools in Australia offering the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO).

While it used to be the case that high school aimed to get as many students as possible into university courses, it’s been acknowledged since the late-80s in Australia that this kind of career path is not ideal for many students. Now, students can start learning practical, job-focused skills in school, including trades, legal skills and even filmmaking. There is much more emphasis now on employment after the school experience than there ever was on the ideal of learning as a way to create a more rounded person.

Whether you want your child to attend a secular private school, a government state school, or a school with a religious background, you will find one that suits your ideals and your budget in Australia’s varied school system.