Starting school is a big milestone for your child, and finding the right school is essential. In Victoria, children who turn 5 by 30th April can start school. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you explore the different school options available for your child, including special schools that cater to specific learning and developmental needs.
Steps to Start School
Choose a school
Timeline: The year before your child starts Prep, before July
Enrol your child
Timeline: Submit applications by July, and you’ll receive a decision between July and August.
**Non-government schools have separate enrolment processes, so contact them directly for timelines and requirements.
Pay necessary costs
If applicable, pay the fees or provide financial arrangements with the school.
Plan and prepare
Participate in transitioning programs, meet with future schools, and provide necessary documents, especially for children with special needs.
Start school
Timeline: End of January, generally around the last week, when the new school year begins.
Step 1: Choosing a School
In Victoria, you have several options for schools, depending on your child’s needs:
Local Government Schools:Your child has the right to attend their local government school under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006. You can also apply for schools outside your local area, but placement is based on a policy that prioritizes siblings and distance from the school.
Non-Government Schools (Catholic & Independent):Non-government schools have their own enrolment timelines. You will need to contact these schools directly for details. Many Catholic schools provide additional support and therapy, and independent schools may offer ISV funding for therapy services.
Specialist Schools:Specialist schools cater specifically to children with disabilities or additional needs. These include:
Types of Specialist Schools
Special Schools
Designed for children with mild intellectual disabilities. Assessments, such as verbal/non-verbal evaluations and Vineland scores, are considered when determining eligibility.Examples:
Ashwood School
Emerson School
Vermont South School
Special Developmental Schools
These schools support children with moderate intellectual disabilities and typically offer a highly structured, visually supportive environment.Examples:
Monash Special Developmental School
Dandenong Valley SDS
Springvale Park SDS
Autism-Specific Schools
Children with an autism diagnosis, supported by a psychologist’s report and other documentation, may attend autism-specific schools. These schools provide individualized support for children with autism, intellectual disabilities, and language challenges.Examples:
Southern Autistic School
Eastern Ranges School
Bulleen Heights School
Supported Inclusion Schools
Supported Inclusion Schools offer places for students with disabilities within mainstream schools. These schools are flexible, providing targeted teaching and therapy.Examples:
Clyde Creek Primary School (specialist campus)
Binap Primary School (integrated provision)
Specialist Schools and Transport Support
If your child attends a specialist school, they may be eligible for transportation services through the Students with Disabilities Transport Program. To apply, your child must meet certain criteria, including living within the school’s transport area and attending for three or more days a week.
More information can be found at Find My School website.
Independent Specialist Schools
Independent specialist schools offer short-term, focused interventions for children with specific emotional, social, or learning challenges.Examples:
Currajong School (East Malvern): For children with severe emotional disorders and average to high IQ.
Cheshire School (Glen Waverley): Supports children with significant social, emotional, and behavioural challenges.
Andale School (Kew): Helps children with specific learning difficulties or social/language challenges.
For a full list of specialist schools in Victoria, visit SchoolMyKids Specialist Schools.
How to Apply for Specialist Schools
For government schools, you can find your local school and submit an enrolment application through the Find My School website. For example, if your child start school in 2025, then you’ll need to submit applications by 26th July 2024, and you’ll receive a decision between 29th July and 9th August.
Non-government schools have separate enrolment processes, so contact them directly for timelines and requirements.
Supporting Your Child’s Journey
Choosing the right school is a critical step in supporting your child’s learning and development. Whether you opt for a local school, specialist school, or an independent option, understanding the options available will help ensure your child gets the best start to their educational journey.
If you need further support, feel free to reach out to local schools or specialist services to discuss the best path for your child.
Comments