Schools Australia

CHILDHOOD: Primary School
Typical ages 6 to 12

From year 1 to year 6 or 7 (depending on the state) primary school is compulsory. The focus is on developing literacy, numeracy, basic mathematics, social studies, creative activities, health and improving the English language.

There are no entry requirements for primary school except with regard to suitable age. For example, if a child is born late in the year, he/she may start school a year later than others born in that year. This decision is made at the discretion of the Principal and parents.

There are no formal certificates awarded at the conclusion of primary school (year 6 or 7) and students’ progress to secondary school is on the condition that they have completed the final year of primary school. Sometimes children who are progressing more slowly than others are ‘kept back’ a year to repeat a level before moving onto the next grade which can delay entry into secondary school a year or two. This decision is made based on the advice of teachers in consultation with parents.

ADOLESCENCE: Secondary School (‘high school’)
Typical ages 12 to 17

Secondary school runs from year 6 or 7 (depending on the state) to year 12 and it is compulsory for students to attend secondary school until the age of 15 which is year 10 level or year 9 for the earlier starting states.

Students tend to leave school prior to reaching the final year 12 level for a variety of reasons, some of which are highlighted below:

• they are struggling to keep up with their study and/or have no interest in academic pursuits
• they are seeking an apprenticeship or traineeship which often operates on a more practical, less academic level
• to enter the workforce
• they have ‘dropped out’ and are not sure what to do in the future

Australia has one of the highest high school dropout rates in the world, but in recent years this number has decreased with an emphasis on completing all 12 years in order to enjoy better employment prospects and lifestyle. Full completion of high school benefits Australian society as it increases the country’s knowledge base. It benefits individuals also as research shows that those who complete high-school are more easily employable, can choose from a wider range of jobs and earn more than those who leave school before obtaining their Senior Secondary Certificate (known by various names in each state).
 
As an interesting side fact, research also indicates that those who complete high school also tend to make fewer visits to doctors and are more aware of what it takes to live a healthy lifestyle.