I teach in a Public Secondary school in NSW. We are very strict on uniform and behaviour and offer many opportunities to our students (including overseas trips). Our teachers are all qualified teachers (not always so in a private school) and we get excellent HSC results and do well value adding to our "struggling" students. I am not in an "affluent" area and yes we have to take everyone (something Private Schools do not have to contend with). I have also done some teaching in Private Schools and truly believe it is up the THE CHILD whether or not they will do well - with the support of parents and their school. I also know most Private schools are A LOT more than $4k per year especially as they get older - many are at least $8-9K plus books, uniforms and everything else. Some schools require you to purchase a laptop!

Choice in Education is a good thing - it makes everyone do their jobs better - but just because it costs more - doesn't make it better. Public schools are not filled with horrible children - but do reflect every part of society - a society we all have to live and work in at some point. You can also apply to Public Schools out of your area if you are not keen on your local. Catholic Systemic Schools (a great system) tend to be a bit cheaper but also tend to have the same issues as Public Schools as they are generally fairly open with their enrolments.

For what its worth the worst behaviour I have dealt with was at a private girls school (the rudeness and arrogance was unbelievable and they were supported in this behaviour by their parents)

I think - could i invest that $8k per year for university or so they could travel or buy a house?

This is just my experience and opinion - being a parent is a hard job and I wish you luck in making the best decision for your kids.

K