Hey mamas, it’s been a while!
We’ve been working behind the scenes in all things MDU. There’s so much we want to do with this platform and so many avenues to go down. To be honest, it’s a big job. But anything we can do to help everyone’s journey along the way, we will try with all our might!
A big question we keep hearing being asked is advice on schools in the area. It would take us hours upon hours to research every single school on the coast but we can give you some tips to consider when it comes to choosing the perfect school for your family.
Things to consider when choosing a school
1. The teaching methods and curriculum the school adheres to. Schools in Queensland follow the Australian Curriculum from Prep to Year 10. This curriculum includes eight key learning areas such as English, mathematics, and science, along with seven general capabilities and three cross-curriculum priorities. In Years 11 and 12, schools can choose from a range of options offered by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA). There are also alternative schools, like Montessori and Steiner, that take a more holistic approach to education, focusing on intellectual, artistic, and practical skills. These schools aim to nurture well-rounded individuals with a strong connection to nature and creativity through creative methods like storytelling, arts, and hands-on activities.
2. Catchment/location area. Many families will consider moving to an area that has a school they are interested in. Sometimes this is prioritised as schools can be strict with only accepting children in the catchment area. Everyone is welcome to enrol in a school they find suitable, even if outside catchment area, but you must be prepared to be put on a wait list and have a second option. Most schools accept out-of-area enrollments, but only if there are places available after local enrollments are met. For enrolments in catchment area, a current lease agreement, driver's license, unconditional sale agreement, Utility bill, and Rates notice may be required as your proof of address.
3. Public or private. Public schools, also known as state schools are funded and operated by the government and offer a wide curriculum. There can be some costs associated with public schools such as student resource fees, uniforms, excursions and camps etc. Private schooling, also known as independent schools or Catholic schools are non-government and charge tutor fees. They often have smaller classes and are based on Catholic values and traditions. More prestigious private schools may have a longer wait list and a non-refundable admin fee.
4. Homeschooling. In Queensland, parents can choose to educate their child at home. If you decide to home-school, you need to register with the Home Education Unit and provide annual progress reports on your child's learning. Your child must be between 5-18 years old when the registration takes effect and cannot be registered for both home education and school at the same time.
5. Extracurricular activities. Consider the extracurricular activities offered at any school you're interested in. Many schools are known for excelling in specific areas like sports or the arts, and participating in these activities can boost your child's confidence and enhance their learning skills. Additionally, some schools offer scholarships to motivate students to work harder and reach their full potential.
6. Facilities and resources. School facilities typically include classrooms, a library, cafeteria, gym, offices, restrooms, outdoor play areas, and special rooms like science labs, art studios, and computer labs. Students also have access to resources like textbooks, online learning tools, library materials, educational software, sports equipment, science supplies, art materials, and technology to help with learning.
7. School culture and values. A school's culture and values are the beliefs and behaviors that guide how everyone—students, teachers, staff, and parents—works together. These values are usually stated in the school's mission and are shown in everyday actions, shaping the overall school experience. Common values include respect, inclusivity, academic success, teamwork, and responsibility.
8. Class size. When thinking about class size, smaller classes often mean more individual attention from teachers, which can help students perform better, especially younger ones. Larger classes might make it harder to keep students engaged and provide personalized support. However, the impact of class size is influenced by factors like student needs, teacher quality, and the overall learning environment.
9. Academic performance. Academic achievement is a key goal of education and is often used to measure how well a school is doing. Achieving academic success is important for students' long-term well-being. Student assessments help teachers see how well their teaching is working by comparing student performance to learning goals. This allows teachers to keep what works and adjust what doesn't in their teaching methods. It may be advised to research grades and achievements for the schools you are looking into.
To help assist in your decision making when choosing a school for your little ones, you can schedule school visits to talk with the teachers and administrators. Ask questions about the curriculum, teaching methods and student support systems. Research is always your best friend, as well as recommendations and reviews from fellow mamas. Analyse the strengths and weaknesses of different schools to find the best fit for your children. Considering your child’s input by involving them in the decision making. This will help your child feel at ease with the choices being made for them.
For a full directory of schools in the Queensland area, search the link below:
These big decisions we make as parents never get easier and it’s natural to worry and wonder if we are doing the right thing. But one thing we all have in common is that we have our children’s best interests at heart, and based on this we will strive to give them the best start in life that we can. Hats off to you mamas
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