General education

There are 5 universities and more than 1000 schools and colleges in Western Australia. The state’s education system is recognized worldwide attracting more than 20,000 foreign students per year.

The education system in Western Australia is made up of government and private schools, with a wide choice of specialties. There are co-educational and single gender schools, schools with a particular religious focus and schools providing specialty programs such as music, sport and vocational training.

There are around 300 non government schools in Western Australia ranging from kindergartens and small community schools to exclusive high fee private schools. Approximately 70% of students in Western Australia attend government schools and 30 % attend private or independent schools.

Education is compulsory from the year in which children turn 6 to the end of the school year in which they are 15 years of age. Primary school commences at year 1, with children aged from 5 and a half years eligible to attend and concludes at year 7. Non compulsory pre-school is available from 2 years prior to primary school with programs offered through government and private schools and privately operated child care centres.

The secondary schools system begins at year 8 and runs through to year 12. Students who do not intend going to university, but wish to complete their secondary education, can select from a wide range of vocational subjects.

Performance is assessed internally by the school and students who meet the requirements for graduation receive the Western Australian Certificate of Education. Students can pursue their area of qualification through university or a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) college.
School term commences in February each year and is divided into four terms. There is usually a two-week break between the first three terms and a seven-week break over Christmas at the end of the school year.

School hours vary between schools and from primary to secondary classes. In Perth, classes begin between 8.30am and 9.00am and finish between 3.00pm and 3.30pm. Generally, schools allow for a 15 to 20-minute break mid morning and mid afternoon and a 45-minute lunch break around midday.

The cost of attending a government school is around $250 per year while the cost of attending a private school can be as low as $1,350 rising to $10,500 per year. Permanent residency migrants have access to all schools, colleges and universities under the same conditions as Australian citizens. Temporary residency migrants may be required to pay fees in advance for university courses and some private and government schools.

Selecting a school

Selecting the most appropriate school is very much based upon the personal needs of the child and family.

A major decision is whether to enrol in a government or non government school. Many factors influence this decision including cost, religion, culture and academic or sporting talents of students. However, enrolments at government schools outside your residential boundaries are subject to availability of student places.

School selection will be one of the major decisions made in the relocation process for any family. It will have considerable influence over where to live. Quality Migrations can assist in this important task with our wide spread knowledge of schools and areas in Perth.

Need more help?

Sign up and get your very own personal consultant in Perth helping you make the right moves.