Schools in Australia
The Australian school system starts with a preparatory year followed by 12 years of primary and secondary schooling. Schooling is compulsory until the age of 16 or completion of Year 10. An additional two years of study are necessary for those wishing to proceed to tertiary studies. In the final year (Year 12), students can study for a government-endorsed certificate which is recognised for further study by all Australian universities and vocational training institutions.
There are two broad categories of schools in Australia – government and private. Both accept international students. The school year in Australia is divided into four terms and runs from late January until December.
Vocational education and training (VET)
The VET sector is positioned between secondary schools and universities and prepares students for employment or further study. This sector consists of public institutes of Technical and Further Education (TAFE), and private colleges specialising in one or more areas of study related to future work.
TAFE Institutes are nationally-recognised, government-funded institutions offering vocational education and training over a wide range of occupations. Courses vary in duration from several hours to three year full-time courses. They are usually cheaper than university courses, and students may progress to university later on with credits for their TAFE studies. Qualifications include certificates, diplomas and advanced diplomas.
Private colleges include business colleges, computer training firms, English language centres, and colleges specialising in a particular field such as aviation, photography, interior decorating, multimedia, hospitality management and tourism.
Many institutes also provide accredited English language training and Foundation Studies for entry into university diploma and bachelor degree courses. All institutes and colleges are subject to Government monitoring to ensure high standards.
