Independent schools’ autonomy gives them freedom to adopt new educational approaches that meet the evolving needs of their students, staff and community, explains Independent Schools Victoria.
Finding the right school for your child can be daunting. The range of options can seem overwhelming, especially in the independent school sector. But while the sheer variety of choices might be intimidating at first, diversity is one of the strengths of the sector.
There are more than 220 independent schools in Victoria. Some are large and some small. Some are single-sex and some co-ed. Many provide boarding services.
Several enjoy deep traditions, having delivered school education for over 150 years; six opened their doors to students for the first time this year.
Some of the schools are dedicated to students with special needs. Others specialise in supporting young people who might fall through the cracks in a more traditional school environment.
All of them have their own educational, religious and philosophical approaches, and there is a wide range of fees. Together, they educate more than 165,000 children in metropolitan and regional centres across the state.
The differences between individual schools within the independent sector are as striking as differences between schools across the broader school sectors. You could not pick any of them and call it a ‘typical’ independent school, except to say that, like the others, it is unique.
What makes an independent school different?
There are three school sectors in Australia. Government schools, also known as ‘public’ schools, are funded entirely by the state and federal governments. Non-government schools – independent schools and Catholic schools – get some funding from the government but are also supported by parents through school fees.
While independent and Catholic schools often get lumped together as ‘private’ schools, there is an important distinction between them. For the most part, Catholic schools are part of a ‘system’; they are overseen by Church appointed bodies. Most independent schools, on the other hand, are autonomous. Their leaders have their own distinct philosophy about the best ways to run a school and what is best for children, and they are free to make bold choices about how they frame and deliver the curriculum.
Parents seeking an alternative to a ‘cookie cutter’ education will find one in the independent sector.
Another reason independent schools value their autonomy is the freedom it gives them to quickly adopt new educational approaches that meet the evolving needs of their students, staff and community.
A recent Independent Schools Australia report, Improving Outcomes for All: Leading Reform Through Innovation, shows that independent schools are leaders when it comes to implementing new education approaches. They are quick to respond to new challenges and ready to adopt new educational practices. They are at the cutting edge when it comes to exploring new technologies in the classroom, such as generative AI.
Independent schools also understand the importance of ongoing professional learning, to ensure their teachers are aware of the latest evidence-based practices and are up-to-date with the latest research on pastoral support.
Which school is right for my child?
School choice is not just a matter of finding a school with the best academic results and facilities. Research by Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) suggests these aren’t necessarily the priorities for families.
Parents responding to ISV’s surveys told us that they are more interested in a school’s emphasis on sound moral values, beliefs and attitudes than a school’s VCE results. They are looking for a school that is best suited to their child’s needs.
What is the school’s education philosophy? Does it have a good reputation? What is the ‘atmosphere’ like at the school? These were all important questions for parents.
Your child will have ideas of their own about what is most important in a school. What subjects does the school deliver? Is there interschool sport? Does it have clubs or extra-curricular programs where they can have fun and find friends?
Engaging them in the process is important, if only to increase their sense of ownership over the decision. I suspect a child who has been involved when choosing a school will feel happier there than a child who has had the choice made for them.
Learning more about a school
The My School website has basic statistical information about all schools which can be a helpful starting point for parents. ISV also provides a database with information about its member schools that can help you narrow your search.
Individual school websites are a great way of learning more about what each school offers, including their educational programs, after school offerings and other activities. School social media profiles generally highlight their events and celebrate the achievements of their students, giving you a sense of what matters at a school.
If you like what you see online, the next step is to take part in an open day or arrange a tour of the school. Staff and students will often be on hand to answer questions you or your child might have. It’s a great way to get a deeper insight on what day-to-day life is like at the school, and what the atmosphere in classrooms is like. Ask yourself: Are the students engaged in the learning? Were the teachers welcoming? Was your child excited about going there?
Principals are always busy, but it’s worth finding a time to meet with them if you can. They are well placed to articulate what sets their school apart and answer your questions about your child’s learning journey.
Talking with friends and family members with children at different schools will give you further insights into a school and its community. While you may get differing opinions, a personal recommendation or viewpoint can go a long way in helping you choose a school.
Fees vary widely between schools and parents should balance them against their children’s needs and their family circumstances. Ask your shortlisted schools for their fee schedules and any additional charges and payment terms. Some schools offer scholarships that might account for part of the fees.
A final thought: parents looking for a school should think less about choosing the ‘best school’ and more about finding the school that is the best fit for you and your child, so that you can embrace being part of that school community together.
There is likely to be a school that is right for your child, and once you have explored these options, the choice will be clear.
For more information, visit:
My School: www.myschool.edu.au
ISV’s schools page: www.is.vic.edu.au/searchschools
ISA report: www.isa.edu.au/documents/improving-outcomes-for-all-leading-reform-through-innovation-2/
