Schools - General in Australia

Australia has one of the best education systems in the world. It is compulsory for children ages six to sixteen and follows the three-tier model which includes primary education, secondary education and tertiary education. Each state is responsible for education in their respective territories by regulating and funding schools within. The federal government helps in funding these schools; however, it is not responsible nor is it involved in setting curriculum.
In Australia, preschool or kindergarten is not compulsory and unregulated. Australian children are often sent to day cares, but these are not considered as preschool education. Preschools are usually run by state governments except in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales where they are run by local councils or private organizations.

Primary education is commonly known as elementary education in the west. The purpose of primary education is to achieve basic literacy and numeracy as well as establishing a basic foundation in science, math, history and other social sciences.
Secondary education is generally the final stage of compulsory education. It is commonly referred to as high school. It is characterized by the transition from basic education to higher education usually as preparation for university or college. Government schools are typically free although there are usually contributions that need to be given. The duration of secondary education vary per state.

Tertiary education is study at university to receive further training in a particular field. Universities provide higher training and as a result, tuition and other fees are higher. Courses in tertiary schools are hugely regulated by their respective schools. Courses offered by universities include communications, engineering, sciences, and many more.

The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations is the government agency that leads the country?s education and workplace training as well as transition to work. It collaborates with the different government agencies with the states and territories to provide easy access to educational services and support programs to the Australian people. It also aims to increase workforce participation and promote fair work practices in Australia.

Tips for choosing the best school for your children

• Choose a school based on leadership instead of choosing whether public or private. If the leadership of the school is good, then you can expect the best service and education for your children.
• The school must share the same values as your family. Consider the policies in place regarding behavior, punctuality and dress codes.
• Does the school provide opportunities for growth other than in academics? A school must also provide extra-curricular activities that would hone the skills and talents of the child.
• The school must have a procedure regarding disciplinary issues that would support the child.
• It is important for a school to have a Parent Teacher Association to foster interaction between students and other members of the community.
• A good school does not enforce a single religion or ideal to the students, instead it promotes the growth of open-minded students who are interested in learning about spirituality.
• The school must have activities and projects that help the community for the child to develop empathy and a sense of social justice.
• Consider the costs of sending your child to a particular school and see if you can afford them.