Raising Children Network: the Australian parenting website
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Choosing your child's school

By Raising Children Network
 
 

For some parents choosing a school is as easy as geography – the one closest to home is the most appropriate. For others, school selection can be a more difficult decision.

There are almost 10 000 schools throughout Australia. Choosing what type of school will most suit their child can be a confusing issue for parents. It's a very personal choice.

For you the decision might be based on:

  • facilities
  • school population
  • broad curriculum
  • a transition to school program
  • religious affiliation
  • single sex or co-ed
  • government or private
  • location
  • connection to local community
  • where your child's friends are going

Before your school search starts, it could help to think about how important each of these issues is to you.

When thinking about school

  • Think about what you want most from your child’s education.
  • Look closely at a school's values and curriculum.
  • If possible, find a school with small classes (although this may be difficult depending on where you live).
  • You can usually enrol the year before your child starts; private schools may have a waiting period.

It’s best if the school’s philosophy matches that of your family. Think about whether you are looking for a curriculum with a balanced sporting and academic approach or one with strengths in artistic and musical areas, or in science and maths. An environment with a strong academic focus might be important to you. You might prefer a culture which teaches your child more about your religious views. It's a good idea to consider your family's interests and values when choosing a school.

Schools (state or private) often have individual and distinct cultures and philosophies; some will have a strong sports ethic, some will follow a religious affiliation while others promote individuality and artistic pursuits.

You may also like to consider whether prospective schools offer a flexible and diverse curriculum which will allow your child to pursue individual talents in particular areas and to work at his own speed.

Most schools provide a prospectus outlining their philosophies and approach in curriculum, discipline and expectations of students.
 
Class size is also an important issue when choosing a school. Research shows that the ideal class size is 16 students to one teacher. Few Australian schools meet this recommendation, but the closer you can get the better.

Debate continues over whether single sex or co-educational schools are best for students. Most families will have a personal view about the issue, which is linked to the personality of their child and their family values, and will choose what is best for their own situation.

Will the school meet the needs of my child?
Some questions you can ask yourself to help narrow down your choices are:

  • Will my child and I be made to feel welcome at the school?
  • Am I comfortable talking with teachers and the principal?
  • How will teachers discipline my child if this is necessary?
  • Do I agree with the school's philosophy?
  • Is recent student work displayed?
  • Does the school appear to be well-cared for?
  • Will my child have a chance for informal play and work?
  • Are there extra staff on hand for times my child may need extra attention?
  • Does this school have an emphasis on talents my child already has?


Enrolling

Most government schools accept enrolments from the second term of the year before your child will start school. Private schools often have long waiting lists and require much earlier enrolment. You can contact schools to find out about their requirements.

You will be given an enrolment form asking for:

  • your child’s name, age and birth date, including a copy of the birth certificate
  • your child's address and phone number
  • parent contact details
  • proof of up-to-date immunisation
  • any other medical or personal information that will help the school meet your child’s individual needs.

Most government schools give preference to children who live within their area. If you wish to enrol your child at a school out of your area, then you will need to apply to that school to do so.

Some schools will ask you to pay some, or all of the school’s levy when you enrol your child.

 
 
 
  • Last reviewed05-05-2006