When it comes to education, we all want what’s best for our kids. Decisions about where your child goes to school are very personal and can be daunting. In Choosing a School for Your Child we aim to make this process as simple as possible. These days, choosing the right school is more than simply choosing between co-educational or single-sex, government or independent. Other factors to consider include educational options, the school’s philosophies, religious affiliation, the co-curricular programs and much more. Some schools are noted for their sporting and musical programs, while others have a strong vocational emphasis. Some make involvement in community service compulsory, while others offer an extensive range of languages and international exchange programs. Our regular features detail everything that a parent needs to know about the NSW education system and the HSC, RoSA and the IB. In order to keep you informed and up-to-date, we have compiled a series of articles that address important issues. Our comprehensive listings highlight information about government and independent schools in Victoria, divided by location for easy reference.

From the Editor

Which School is Right for Your Child? • Choosing the “right” school is a daunting and difficult task for most parents. Here, we show you how and where to start, providing all the knowledge you need to make an informed and appropriate decision that will benefit your child and your family

From primary to secondary • The tricky transition and how to survive it: a guide for you and your child

Community links • Developing a strong sense of community and social justice is an integral component of an education at Yarra Valley Grammar

International programs • Schools throughout Australia conduct international student programs, inviting students from overseas to complete their secondary education and university here

A challenging competition • St Leonard’s College has a long history of success in the da Vinci Decathlon and the past 12 months have been no exception

International debating success • Year 12 St Leonard’s College students Niamh Nolan and Sam Chilcott make their point

Discovery Learning • How do we prepare children for jobs that don’t yet exist? What skills are needed for life-long learning? How can we build knowledge through skill development? Learning is not just what is taught, but how and who we are teaching

All together now • There is never a dull moment at Alia College and term two of this year was no exception, with a host of extra-curricular activities

Embracing our world • Say the word “Simunye” at Huntingtower and everyone knows what you mean

Bringing ideas to life • STEAM in education is crucial in preparing the next generation of Camberwell girls, as demonstrated by MakerSpace and Girls Invent

From farm to table • The Aitken farm has always been an iconic feature of Aitken College and shows students where their food comes from

Champions of theatre and drama • ELTHAM College has a long tradition of bringing contemporary and traditional performances to the stage

Citizens of the world • The concept of being a ‘citizen of the world’ dates back to Socrates, but never has it been more relevant

The Primary Years at The Kilmore International School • The Kilmore International School (TKIS) believes that Primary School should be challenging yet safe, friendly, reassuring and encouraging; a place where each child’s contribution is valued and a place where they can grow

A personalised approach to learning • Alongside encouraging a love of learning and innovative educational experiences, Ivanhoe Grammar School focuses on fully preparing students for the successful transition to tertiary study and the workforce through a personalised, futures-focused...