Australia is a refreshingly child-friendly place to live and a wonderful place to raise a family. The abundance of parks and excellent outdoor activities and facilities ensure that children grow up enjoying the outdoors and all it has to offer.Australia ranks fifth as having the most effective education system among the world’s richest countries, according to a United Nations study in 2002. South Korea leads the ranking ahead of Japan, Finland, Canada and Australia, with Britain ranked seventh, New Zealand equal tenth and the United States 18th among the 24 nations.
Education
The Australian education system is different from the UK’s and varies slightly from State to State, and the ages for each level of education may vary by a year or two. Schooling is compulsory for students in most States and Territories until the age of 15. Although students are able to leave at that time, most students do not leave until they complete their Year 10 qualification, with many students staying on to complete their Year 12 studies.
There are cost implications for children of non-residents which can run to thousands of dollars a year per child – please refer to further information in the city sections.
School Hours
State primary and high schools generally run from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, except for public holidays and school holidays. Individual schools and States may set slightly different starting and finishing times.
Term Dates
The Aussie school year begins in February and is divided into four terms. As in the UK, schools have many holidays throughout the year including Easter, summer, Christmas, etc. You will need to confirm with your local school which ones are applicable as they vary throughout the country.
Guide To The Aussie Education System
Most public schools (State government) are mixed sex and multicultural.
Pre-School
For youngsters aged around 4—6 years. Education is basic and skills-based, involving reading, structured play, painting, etc.
Primary School
For children aged 6 to around 12 starting at kindergarten and running from years 1 to 6. This is where all the basic subjects are taught including maths, English, geography, science etc. Some introductory foreign languages may be taught and a growing emphasis is placed on sport.
High School
In most States this is six years long (years 7 to 12), but in some (eg the Australian Capital State), it is only four years long, with the final two years being completed in college. High school students should have learnt all the subjects to basic adult levels or above by the end of Year 10 when they achieve the School Certificate, which is an educational credential. They then go on to years 11 and 12 where they study for their Higher School Certificate.
Qualifications
The Higher School Certificate is more commonly referred to as the HSC. Students must have achieved their School Certificate or equivalent in order to be able to study for their HSC and enter Year 11 (called Preliminary). Students must pass various assessments that year in order to be able to move on to Year 12 (HSC). The only compulsory subject is English and all other subjects are electives that vary from school to school. Assessment is made up of 50% internal school assessment and 50% external HSC examination assessment.
How To Enrol Your Child In School
When you enrol your child in any school you will need to take proof of their date of birth, such as the child’s birth certificate, passport or visa. Contact the school direct to get the necessary forms.
Fees
Non-residents will have to pay for their children’s school. Fees vary depending on whether you choose to send your kids to a state or private
school and are generally in excess of $4,500 per child, per year. Each of the States has different guidelines and charges in place – refer to the education section of the chapter on the State to which you are considering moving for further information.