After immigrating to Australia, how can children attend schools in Australia? What if children do not speak English before arriving in Australia? How can parents with limited English find schools for their children? These are concerns for many parents planning to immigrate to Australia. WorldWay Immigration has compiled relevant questions regarding education in Australia and children's schooling.
1. Overview of the Education System in Australia
In Australia, all children aged four can attend preschool. Preschool helps children develop physically, emotionally, and socially before formal schooling begins.
In Australia, children must start school at the age of five and continue until they complete Year 10. After Year 10, they must participate in full-time education, training, or employment, or a combination of these activities (at least 25 hours per week) until they complete Year 12 or turn 17 years old.
Generally, Australian children attend primary school until they are 12 or 13 years old, then move on to secondary school until they are 17 or 18 years old. Some senior secondary schools in Australia only accept students in Years 11 and 12 to prepare them for the high school graduation examination.
2. How Can New Immigrants in Australia Find Schools for Their Children?
After immigrating to Australia, new immigrants can send their children to public schools or non-government schools. To find schools in your area, you can search under the "Schools" section of the White Pages directory in Australia.
Public schools in Australia provide free education. However, most schools require a small fee or voluntary contributions to enhance educational and sports programs. Additional teaching materials or services may need to be provided by parents or paid for by parents to the school. Parents may need to purchase items such as pencils, pens, books, and uniforms (if required) for their children.
Students holding temporary visas in Australia may need to pay full tuition fees. You must inquire with the school for specific details.
Private schools in Australia charge fees, and they may have religious affiliations or specific educational purposes. Parents interested in private education should make appointments with the relevant private education management agencies or contact the chosen school directly.
If you need before or after school care or school holiday programs, please inquire with the chosen school about these programs. These programs are designed to care for children while you are at work.
3. What Should Parents Do If Their School-Aged Children Do Not Speak English?
In most states and territories of Australia, children of new immigrants who do not speak English can directly enroll in English language schools and English language centers, which offer intensive English courses designed for children. These schools are located in urban areas and some larger towns. For details about English language courses for school-aged children, please inquire at your nearest public school.
The English as a Second Language for New Arrivals (ESL-NA) program allows eligible new immigrant students to learn English in Catholic and independent primary and secondary schools.
Parents and caregivers with limited English proficiency can request the school to arrange for an interpreter when discussing matters related to their children. They can also use the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) provided by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to contact the school.
4. How Can New Immigrants in Australia Enroll Their Children in School?
To enroll your child in school, please call or visit the school in person. You will need to bring your visa or entry documents to Australia, proof of your child's date of birth, and any documents related to their previous education (including transcripts). You may also need to provide immunization records.
5. University Enrollment for Children of New Immigrants in Australia
Australian universities are among the best in the world. Undergraduate degree programs typically require three years, but there are also dual degree and postgraduate programs that take longer to complete. Some programs offer options for distance learning and part-time study. Universities also offer shorter professional development courses.
Before attending university, students with limited English proficiency should enroll in English courses. This will help ensure that their English language skills meet university requirements.
For information on admissions and courses, please contact individual universities or visit the Going to University website. The Study in Australia website provides practical information about studying in Australia for non-English speakers.
University course fees may include "upfront" tuition fees or fees paid after completing the degree (Higher Education Contribution Scheme, also known as HECS), miscellaneous fees, textbook costs, accommodation fees, and general living expenses. Students should also be aware that if they withdraw from university, they may still incur HECS debts.