SYDNEY EDUCATION

Children start school at 5 or 6 years old. They attend primary school until they are 11 or 12, then go on to secondary school.

Government Schools in New South Wales charge temporary visa holders AUD$4500 per child / per year. Academic standards are generally high.

Private Schools are often affiliated with a church and many have waiting lists for enrolment. There are very few private primary schools and, for those that choosing this option, the trend is to enrol in private school after primary.

Parish Catholic Schools are common in most areas.

Pre–Schools are usually open between 9.00am and 3.00pm, and offer three or two days per week programmes. There are usually long waiting lists for permanent places.

Long Day Care centres are open from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm. They are generally available for 0 - 5 year olds. They can cater for occasional care through to five days per week programmes.

Family Day Care schemes are operated by councils or community groups. Care is provided in private homes by government approved carers.