Private school - tell me about it!

[Freya]

I think they are extremely reasonable too Mary, being that I grew up in Sydney where they charge you an arm, leg and your firstborn to privately educate your kids, esp catholic education

[njon2]

I'm a primary teacher and have just enrolled dd into a private school. I didn't like the local schools around me and was really disappointed in the students attitudes.
The few times I worked at the private christian school was all I needed to see a major difference. I am paying 3800 for 3yr old early learning with fees going up roughly 500-1000 each year.

[nickle730]

My kids are privately educated (G3 and Prep this year). I also found the size of our local public schools to be daunting. They are at a small private school and I am very happy. My kids love their school and are always happy to go. I am a big believer that kids will not learn unless they are in an environment where they feel safe and secure and our school provides that for my kids. My daughter has needed some assistance with her reading and I have been very pleased with the support of the school and the additional teaching and resources provided. If ever I have had an issue with something occurring at school, whether academic or social, I have no hesitation in approaching the school and I have always felt that I have been listened to and the response has been swift and appropriate. The school has committed teaching staff, good facilities and vast opportunities for the kids to pursue their individual interests.

I believe there are some fantastic public schools - but none of them are located in my area! I consider the money spent on school fees to be money well spent; my kids are receiving a great education in an environment where they are valued as individuals and they feel safe and loved. I'm happy to pay for that. Which is good really, as this year our fees are over $25K for the two of them!! (Pretty much average for the private school system in Melbourne.)

I say go with your gut. If you can afford the fees and you have a better feel for the Catholic school, then go for it.

[HotI]

I don't think it's as simple as Private or Public, but more looking at schools on their own merits and deciding if the benefits (of private) justify the fees etc.

This is what i was going to say.

I went to a public primary that was great, and 2 different catholic high schools- one was great, the other blah. You have to think about your child and their specific needs and what specific school will fit them best. e.g. one of my brothers was artistic and talented with his hands so the technical school was best for him. Another brother was intellectual (good at maths/science/english) and so a different school was best for him.