How to Choose the Right School

Choose the right school for you and your Wide Bay Kids

In Queensland there are almost 1,300 state schools and over 450 independent and Private schools. No wonder, as parents or carers, we struggle to find a school that is best for our children.  Bundaberg and the Wide Bay has 46 state primary schools, 9 state high schools, 13 private and independent schools and 1 special school. View or download the Bundaberg School Guide here.

As a parent, I am committed to ensuring children succeed and are able to achieve their full potential. Choosing the right school is key to guaranteeing success.

What are the important points to look for when choosing a school for your kids? 

There is no one answer to this question, it  may be different depending on who you talk to. Every family has different values and beliefs, and what we may want from our school community for our children.  A good way for parents to understand the culture and philosophy of a school is to first consider what the needs of your child are:   

• What are your child's needs and interests? Will the school be able to cater for them?
• Is the school reasonably close to home, work and carers?
• What facilities does the school offer? Are you comfortable with the feel of it?
• What are the school policies on homework, discipline and safety?
• Are other services available such as after school care?

Parents may wish to ask prospective schools:

• the size of the school
• when to enrol
• teaching methods and classroom environment
• uniform policy
• school hours
• levies
• assessment and reporting procedures
• available resources
• extracurricular activities
• communication between home and school
• student participation, e.g. school council
• parental involvement, e.g. parents and citizens' association

Ask for copies of the school rules or code of conduct, newsletters, prospectus and annual report will give you further information about the school and its activities. Visit the school meet the principal or other key staff members who may provide tours, classroom visits and information sessions.

There are four key elements each family may wish to consider when choosing a school. Ask potential schools what their policy is and ask for an example of a situation that has occurred.  Remember, not every school is going to suit your child, nor may it suit your neighbour, your family or friends. You have a choice;

• Learn: How does the school offer learning in a safe and supportive environment, free from bullying, discrimination or harassment.
• Achieve: How does the school academically and socially with reasonable adjustments and supports tailored learning needs for your child or others in the classroom. 
• Attend: How will your child and family to welcomed and support into the school community, no matter of ability, religion or race. 
• Access and Participate: How does the school offer high-quality education with a fully engaged curriculum.

Choosing a state school

Queensland state education operates as a partnership between schools and their communities. All state schools are co-educational. Primary schools offer education from Prep to Year 6 and secondary schools offer education from Years 7 to 12.

The school year runs from late January to mid December. It is divided into 2 semesters, with 2 terms in each and school holiday breaks for Easter in April, winter in July, spring in September and summer in December.

Children usually attend the state school closest to where they live; however, parents can send their children to the state school of their choice, depending on available places. Some schools have a School Enrolment Management Plan that means students may not be able to attend unless they live within the designated catchment zone.  Find a school closest to you on this interactive map. 

Here is our list of schools in the Bundaberg region, including North Burnett, Gin Gin and Childers.

Looking for information on child care in Bundaberg? Read about it here.

Source: Education Queensland