Australian secondary schools are renowned for the stimulating learning environment that they provide. Excellent facilities, highly qualified and helpful teaching staff along with modern equipment and current technology makes Australian secondary education attractive to students from many parts of the world.
Many Schools to Choose from
There are many Private schools to choose from with over 200 in South Australia alone. Most private schools are associated with religious institutions and have independent funding with some financial assistance from the government. Private schools offer a broad based curriculum along with many additional activities in the areas of sport, recreation and the arts. Class sizes are generally smaller than the government schools and International students are usually assisted through specialist programs administered by an International student Coordinator.
Government schools also welcome international students. Most schools in Australia are Government run and charge minimal fees for Australian citizens and residents. International students must pay higher fees, but fees required by government schools are less than the fees charged by private schools. There will be differences in the number and nature of subjects offered by each individual school and class sizes will also vary.
| State | Government | Private |
| NSW | 2,000 | 900 |
| Vic | 1,650 | 700 |
| SA | 650 | 200 |
| ACT | 200 | 50 |
| WA | 800 | 250 |
| NT | 150 | 30 |
(Note: School numbers listed include primary schools.)
How does school work in Australia?
Primary school education begins in Australia at the age of 5 and continues for 7 years to the age of 12 or 13. Students then enter high school where they undertake middle or junior high studies, followed by senior school studies to the end of year 12. Successful completion of secondary studies is determined through a combination of assessed course work and examinations. Students looking to continue their studies at university level must complete their secondary studies to an appropriate standard. These standards are set by the universities themselves.
The school year begins in late January, early February and finishes in mid-December. The year is divided into four terms with a two week vacation between each term. At the end of term 4 the summer vacation begins which continues for approximately six weeks. Within each state there are slight variations in the structure and assessment of secondary education programs, but subjects studied are similar and education standards are uniform.
Australia’s multi-cultural society embraces students from all over the globe. Australians enjoy a high standard of living at relatively low cost. Australia is a safe, friendly and politically stable country. It is a very beautiful country with lots of places to visit and explore.
Most secondary schools provide support services to International students with some providing a specialist international focus in certain courses of study. An appointed International student coordinator manages pastoral care and other administrative matters specific to international students.
Got further questions?
If you have further questions, why not click here to go to the Frequently Asked Questions page or contact Stirling Education via email.
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