subject: Understanding the Australian School System by:Brian Haines [print this page] If you're planning a family immigration to Australia or getting a student visa, there are certain basic things you need to know about Australia schools. Australia's educational system is well-known for its effective structure and innovative policies.
The country's school system starts with kindergarten or preparatory, followed by 12 years of primary and secondary school. Australia schools follow a national curriculum framework with subjects in eight key learning areas:
English
Math
Studies of society and the environment
Science
Arts
Languages other than English
Technology and personal development
Health and physical education
The school year stats in late January or early February and ends in December. The year is usually divided into four terms. The schedule varies per Australia school, but it generally runs from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 3:30pm.
After Year 12, you may apply for government-endorsed study courses in Australia. The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education is recognised by Australian university, colleges and other educational institutions. This is a pre-requisite for an undergraduate degree.
Once an undergraduate degree has been satisfactorily completed, you may pursue a postgraduate degree. For this, your institution of choice may take research ability or relevant work experience into consideration.
To be accepted into an Australian college, university or school on a student visa, one main requirement is sufficient English language proficiency. Most schools also have a minimum academic requirement.
