Australian families are choosing private schools more than ever before – we need to understand why, reports Sally Larsen The shape of Australia’s school system is undergoing a significant change. Enrolments in independent schools are growing, while fewer students attend public schools. Why are more families choosing...
With a new school term starting how can you tell if your child is ready for a smartphone? Asks Joanne Orlando. What are the alternatives? The start of the school year means some parents will be asking a big question: is it time for a child’s...
Watch shows together, talk about them and have dance parties, writes Jennifer Stokes As January lingers, families may find themselves struggling with what a friend of mine has labelled the “electronic nanny”. Children have been out of their normal routines for weeks during the holidays. Some have...
Specialists recommend you consider the following when shopping for school shoes especially for your child: Shoes with arch support and cushioning will protect the joints and ligaments throughout a range of activities, by distributing pressure across the foot. Adjustable fastening mechanisms (such as velcro or...
Suzan Morgan is in a dilemma over school fundraising. The Unrelenting Pressure of School Fundraising Events It’s lovely to see my six year old bounding out of school, a happy smile on her face. What a pleasure to see education having that effect on her demeanour, I...
Try asking them what they are looking forward to, writes Samantha Vlcek By next week, most schools will start to return for term 1. This can be a nervous time for some students, who might be anxious about new teachers, classes and routines. Returning to school after...
Kylie Ridder looks at how to handle it when your child doesn’t want you to go You’re doing daycare or school drop-off, you’re already late for work, and your child’s lip starts to quiver. A tremble turns into a wail, a wail into heart-rending cries as...
Emma Rowe looks at how families can end up paying hundreds of dollars in voluntary fees. As Australian families prepare for term 1, many will receive letters from their public schools asking them to pay fees. While public schools are supposed to be “free”, parents are regularly...
As the new school year is about to start, parents might need to monitor and support their children through social challenges at school. Parents worry about many things when their children first start school, but one concern often looms larger than all others: Will my child...
Officeworks' 2025 Back to School Appeal is set to make a significant impact by raising funds to support thousands of Australian students in need, ensuring they have the essential resources to thrive in their education through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. As the new...
