Finding the right school

Independent schools educate students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. They are characterised by their commitment to excellence.

Victoria’s independent schools include primary schools, secondary schools and schools providing education from kindergarten to Year 12. 

Enrolments range from 20 students to more than 2000. There are co-educational and single-sex schools, schools in the city and in the country. 

Currently, 15 Victorian independent schools offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma at Years 11 and 12 as an alternative to the Victorian Certificate of Education.

More than 80 have government approval to enrol full fee-paying overseas students.

Independent schools are accountable to government authorities and must comply with existing laws but they are independent – able to develop their own policies, practices and procedures for student welfare, uniform, enrolment, curriculum and expected standards of behaviour.

Independent schooling in Victoria goes back more than 150 years. Today’s independent schools, young and old, are dedicated to excellence in education.

Selecting the school that is right for your child can be a difficult and time-consuming task, so here are a few pointers.

Know what you want

You will be seeking a school that matches the individual needs and interests of your child. Academic excellence could be important and you might be looking for other features such as a language programme, a school that focuses on music or one that has a sports-oriented culture.

Do you want your child to learn to network, to think innovatively, to be independent? Schools also provide an opportunity to develop social and interactive skills.

Each family has a set of values they live by – religious or philosophical. Choose a school that complements your values.

Visit schools

Visit a range of schools including religious, non-denominational, single sex, co-educational, small and large.

This will give you a clear idea of what’s on offer and what fits your child’s needs. Make an appointment to take a tour during school hours to see how things are run.

Involve your child

Your children must be involved in the decision-making process because they will be attending the school and need to feel comfortable and positive about being there. Investigate the school’s teaching methods so you can match the school to your child’s talents, strengths and interests.

Seek a partnership

Enrolling your child establishes a partnership between parents and the school. Is communication one-way, or will the school seek feedback? Are there opportunities for you to be involved with the school through a parents’ association or volunteering? It’s important to investigate how your child will be assessed and how this will be reported to you.

Create a checklist

Your checklist might include:

• costs – are there additional costs for text books, uniforms and excursions?
• future plans – find out if the school is considering making any changes that may affect your decision, such as altering teaching methods or school philosophy
• student support – how does the school deal with issues such as specific learning needs, conflict resolution and social issues?
• engaging with students – is the curriculum structured in such a way that all different learning types will benefit?

School Locator

Our School Locator will help you make the right decision by providing a snap-shot of the school that best matches your needs. Victorian independent schools and Catholic schools that are members of AISV are included. The School Locator lists schools matching your initial criteria and location and provides brief information relating to school philosophy, fees, enrolment range and, where available, a direct link to the school's web site.

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