Starting a new life in Australia can be an exciting adventure, especially if you have kids who need to join the Australian education system. At Remitly, we know that navigating a new school system can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But don’t worry, there are plenty of helpful resources and friendly communities that will support you along the way.
In this article, we’ll explore the Australian education system, starting with the early days of kindergarten to Year 12 and beyond.
Australia’s education system
The Australian education system typically starts with preschool, which can be optional, followed by compulsory schooling around five to six years old. The main stages in this journey are:
- Primary (Years K–6)
- Secondary (Years 7–12)
From there, students will go on to Vocational Education and Training (VET), attend TAFE institutions, or go to university. There are also selective schools for academically gifted students, and some schools specialise in areas like music, sports, or creative educational philosophy.
Keep in mind that different regions in Australia, states, or territories may have slight variations in starting ages or school calendars. For example, in Queensland, children can start primary school as young as three years old, as long as they turn four by June 30 of that school year. The cutoff dates differ throughout the country, so be sure to check with your local department of education for specific enrollment rules.
The education journey: from preschool to university
Many Australian children attend a one-year kindergarten or preschool program before formal education. This helps them gain social skills, build basic literacy and numeracy, and get used to a structured environment.
Primary school usually lasts seven years (from kindergarten or Prep to Year 6). During this time, your children will focus on basic skills like reading, writing, maths, and some light general knowledge.
Afterwards, secondary school (Years 7 to 12) starts to include more academic subjects and offer electives in areas like sciences, technology, and humanities.
When your child finishes Year 12, they will have different higher education options to choose from, like university. For example, a Bachelor’s degree or vocational courses that teach practical skills in fields like healthcare, trades, and hospitality.
Australia’s universities rank highly around the world and are internationally renowned for their high-quality programs. So your children will have a great range of options for their studies.
Key elements of the Australian curriculum
Most states and territories follow the Australian Curriculum, although you might find some variations depending on where you live. It is developed by ACARA (Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority) and lays out what students should learn across subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities. It also highlights important areas like sustainability and Indigenous heritage.
This shared curriculum helps ensure a high standard of learning while allowing flexibility for schools to tailor lessons to their community. As your child progresses through school, they’ll cover a wide range of subjects, from arts to technology, building a strong foundation no matter which path they choose.
School types and structures
Learning about each school type can help you find the most suitable place for your child. It also helps to know what levels and qualifications exist if you want specific outcomes in your child’s secondary education.
Australia’s schooling system is very diverse. Families can select from a variety of school types, from public schools (government-funded) to private schools (including faith-based), and even specialised or alternative setups.
Understanding primary and secondary schools
Primary education usually starts with Prep or Foundation Year and runs through to Year 6 (or 7, depending on the state). It’s all about laying the foundation for literacy and numeracy. Students also learn how to interact with others, develop their curiosity, and become part of their school community.
Secondary covers Years 7 to 12 (or 8 to 12 in some states), and this is where things get more academic. When they reach the senior years (from 11 to 12), they focus on subjects that will prepare them for final exams and qualifications like the Certificate of Education (for example, the HSC in New South Wales or VCE in Victoria).
Differences between public, private, and alternative schooling
- Public schools: They are funded by the government and tend to follow the state or territory curriculum closer, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities, too.
- Private schools: These schools can be independent or religious. Catholic schools are a common option, but there are many other religious and non-government institutions, as well. These schools also provide specialised curriculum options such as the International Baccalaureate (IB).
- Alternative or selective schools: Some families prefer to choose selective schools for academically gifted students or alternative education programs like Steiner or Montessori. These focus on creative or holistic learning.
Exploring levels and school qualifications
Students can earn qualifications that demonstrate their progress throughout their school years. After Year 12, many go on to receive a Certificate of Education named after the state (like QCE in Queensland), which may be required for higher education or certain types of work.
Some schools also offer:
- Vocational education courses: These are for students to gain hands-on skills in trades, healthcare, or hospitality alongside academic subjects.
- The International Baccalaureate (IB): A globally recognised program focusing on academic excellence.
- Baccalaureate alternatives or bridging programs: These help students transition to college-level study.
Curriculum and learning approaches
As your family adapts to Australia and its school culture, you’ll find that it tends to embrace the idea that no two children learn the same way. Different schools use specific teaching methods that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
What is the Australian education system curriculum?
The Australian Curriculum sets out national guidelines for what your child should learn in major subjects, including:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Humanities (History, Geography, Civics)
- Arts (Visual Arts, Music, Drama)
- Languages
- Health and Physical Education
- Technologies
Teachers use a mix of practical activities, discussions, and written tasks to keep student engagement. Some schools also offer newcomers language support to help them adjust more easily.
The 3a approach: A focus on children’s development
The Abecedarian Approach Australia (3a) is a simple and powerful way to help young children learn and grow. It focuses on four key elements: language-rich interactions, enriched caregiving, learning games, and conversational reading.
In Australia, many early childhood programs use this approach to give kids the best start in life, especially those from different backgrounds. It’s all about creating a warm and supportive environment where children feel safe, curious, and excited to learn.
The role of exams and assessments
Assessment in Australia mixes classroom projects, observations, quizzes, group tasks, and exams. In lower primary years, teachers focus on informal observations to track how well children understand reading or numeracy skills. As students progress into secondary school, they take more structured testing, leading up to major Year 12 exams.
Many states also hold standardised tests, like NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy), for Years 3, 5, 7, and 9. These tests help monitor basic skills across Australia and identify areas where students may need extra support.
School choices and decision-making
When it comes to choosing the right school for your child, Australia has something for everyone. With this diversity of schools, from government-funded public schools to niche alternative programs, you’ll likely have a multitude of choices for your child to settle into their new surroundings.
The benefits of diverse school choices for parents in Australia
Moving to a new country comes with many big decisions, and choosing the right school for your child is one of them. In Australia, many school options exist, including public, private, religious, independent, and even bilingual schools.
This diversity allows parents to choose an education that aligns with their child’s needs, whether that means smaller class sizes, specialised programs, or a focus on language and culture. This way, your child feels more comfortable and confident in their learning environment, making it easier to succeed in a new country.
Also, schools with multicultural communities provide a sense of belonging, allowing children to celebrate their heritage while making friends from different backgrounds. No matter where you come from, there’s a welcoming school community ready to support your child’s education.
How to search and compare schools
- Check government resources: The official Australian Government Department of Education website is a good starting point for general information.
- Use comparison tools: There are different websites where you can compare schools in different areas based on specific filters (e.g. Victoria or New South Wales).
- Ask other parents: Chatting with friends, neighbours, or other parents at community events can be a great way to hear about real-life experiences.
- Visit the school: If possible, arrange a tour or open day, meet the staff, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
Advice on choosing the right school for your child
- Consider location and commute: If your child needs to travel long distances, this can add stress to the day, especially if you rely on public transport.
- Identify what your child needs: Ask yourself, does your child thrive in a structured environment, or do they need more creative freedom?
- Look into extra support: Make sure the school can provide assistance if your child has language or special learning requirements, and confirm that the school can cater to them.
- Review financial aspects: Public schools are free, but you’ll have to pay for materials and uniforms, while private schools have tuition fees.
Support and resources for families
Having a vast list of resources and a solid support system will help both you and your child settle into their new school. Through Australia’s extensive educational websites, you’ll find free or low-cost services focused on tutoring, counselling, and cultural integration.
Support for school students and parents
- English-language support: EAL (English as an Additional Language) classes or bilingual aides to help newcomers with lessons.
- Well-being services: Many schools have staff trained to support mental health and emotional development.
- Homework clubs: These after-school sessions help students with assignments.
- Parent-teacher organisations: These groups help families get involved in fundraising, events, community activities, and policy discussions.
For more formal resources, you can also check the Australian Education Research Organisation or local community centres, which frequently run programs for immigrants.
How parents can help their child do well at school
- Stay informed: Read school newsletters, follow the calendar of events, and talk to teachers to understand how the school works.
- Create a study-friendly space: Set up a quiet, well-lit corner at home to help your child concentrate.
- Encourage a balanced routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep, exercise, and playtime alongside their studies.
- Offer emotional support: Celebrate achievements, big or small, and reassure them that it’s okay to make mistakes; it’s all part of learning.
Resources for immigrant families navigating the system
Adjusting to a new country’s education setup might bring many questions. If you’re new to Australia, you’ll find multicultural organisations and community groups in your local area to help you navigate the education system. Also, schools usually organise events where you can meet teachers or other parents and feel more at ease about this new step for your child.
There are trusted online forums such as ReachOut and What to expect, where parents discuss everything from the best school uniforms to how to handle Year 12 exam stress. Remember, you’re never alone in this process, and plenty of people are happy to share experiences or lend a hand.
Getting involved: supporting your child’s education
Choosing where, when, and how your child goes to school is one of the most important parts of settling into life as a newcomer. But with a supportive network of teachers, community programs, and fellow parents, you’ll soon find your family’s place within the Australian education system.
The importance of parental involvement in education
Being an active part of your child’s education will make a huge difference. Whether it’s attending school events, offering help with homework, or simply chatting about their day, your engagement shows you value education—which can be incredibly rewarding for all parties involved.
Studies show that children whose parents are involved in their learning tend to do better academically and feel more confident in school. Even small things like reading together, asking about their favourite subject, or encouraging their efforts help build a strong foundation.
Involvement with your child’s education is also a great way to connect with teachers and other parents. This makes it easier to navigate the school system and feel part of the community.
Future trends in Australian education
Australian schools are always evolving, looking at emerging trends like focusing on learning first and collaboration. These innovations are all designed to help Australian students stay competitive and prepared for the future.
More schools are also incorporating hands-on learning experiences, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), coding, and sustainability projects.
With a growing focus on student well-being, schools are introducing more mental health support, cultural inclusivity, and personalised learning approaches to ensure every child gets the best chance to succeed.
Encouragement for active participation in children’s educational journey
We encourage you to stay engaged, ask questions, and celebrate your child’s progress. You’ll not only support their academic success, but also create lasting memories as you adjust to your new life in Australia.
Over time, the state lines and territory differences become easier to understand, and you’ll feel more confident in making decisions that support your child’s future. No matter where you are in your journey, your involvement and encouragement will always be some of the most valuable gifts you can give your child.
FAQs
What is the 3a approach?
The 3a approach (Abecedarian Approach Australia), focuses on creating a learning and nurturing environment that supports your child’s development and encourages their independence.
What is level 3 school in Australia?
A level 3 school provides education up to level 10 and prepares students for higher education or vocational training.
What is the Australian education system?
The system typically includes preschool, primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary school runs through Year 6 or 7, secondary school continues to Year 12, and after that, students can pursue university, TAFE, or other VET pathways.
How many curriculums are there in Australia?
There’s one main Australian Curriculum (ACARA), but states and territories can adapt it slightly. Schools may also offer alternative programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB).