AIDE

Introduction to Primary and Secondary Schools

Government Schools
Non-government Schools

Australia has the best education system in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. Language environment in government schools is beneficial for international students because local students account for the majority. Government schools (also known as public schools) are free for all Australian citizens and permanent residents, while Catholic and independent schools usually charge attendance fees. Students studying in government schools occupy approximately two-thirds of all Australian students. Government schools are run by the respective state government agency.

All Australian schools are required to adhere to the same curriculum frameworks of their state or territory. However, the curriculum framework provides some flexibility in syllabus, so that subjects such as religious education can be taught. Most school students wear uniforms while some schools do not require uniforms. In Victoria, tuition fees for Year 1-6 are AUD$12,218, tuition fees for Year 7-10 are AUD$16,195, and tuition fees for Year 11-12 are AUD$18,163, which is very suitable for families with insufficient guarantee funds (Nov 2020 standard).

Australian non-government schools usually have long history and good reputation in the local area. Due to the high tuition fees, they are hailed as noble schools. Private Schools are mostly run by Religious and Community Sectors, which is why they are usually called Catholic or Christian Schools or Grammar Schools. They are partly funded by the Australian Government. Private Schools normally have smaller class sizes and nice exclusive and safe facilities. Many of these schools have their own primary schools, and secondary schools.

Known for their friendly natures and community spirit, these schools are an ideal schooling option to give children a great start in life and improve their skills. Non-government school is a very popular choice for international students as well. Because of the large investment in campus, teaching facilities, management, teachers, etc., the tuition fees are more expensive than that of public schools. The tuition fees for Year 8-10 are usually AUD$ 18,000 - AUD$41,260 per year (July 2020 standard).

There are four main types of private secondary schools in Australia

International Middle School

These schools usually attract students through their own excellent teaching reputation. Some schools have a history of more than 100 years, forming a unique teaching model, which lead them to the best schools in Australia. Independent schools are close-knit communities that provide students with individualized attention. They encourage students to stretch their minds and also cultivate students’ sense of responsibility and independency.

• Mission-driven education

• High academic standards
• Small classes that allow for individual attention
• Excellent teachers
• High Inclusiveness
• A community of parents who actively participate in their children’s education

Catholic Schools
Catholic schools have been a major component of Australian education for over 175 years. Compared to previous generations, today’s Australian Catholic schools are relatively well equipped and staffed by well-qualified, committed teachers. Like all Australian schools, Catholic schools are accountable to governments and their local communities to meet all the teaching and learning requirements of the state. They also have distinctive features which derive from a core of philosophical and theological truths which are central to their character and mission. They are highly regarded by the Australian community.

Independent middle school
These schools usually named after the founders and attract students through their own excellent teaching reputation. Some schools in this category have a history of more than 100 years, forming a unique teaching model, which lead them to the best schools in Australia. Independent schools are close-knit communities that provide students with individualized attention. They challenge students to stretch their minds and go beyond academics to develop responsible, independent students.

• Independence in the truest sense of the word.

• Mission-driven education.

• High academic standards.
• Small classes that allow for individual attention.
• Excellent teachers.
• Education for the whole child.
• Inclusiveness.
• A community of parents who actively participate in their children’s education.

University-affiliated middle school
Many universities in Australia have subordinate high schools that use the university ’s teaching facilities and teachers. This kind of school is usually located near the university campus, and students can feel the learning atmosphere while studying on campus. It should be noted that students in such secondary schools are not guaranteed to enter the corresponding universities.