Updated 19 October 2026 · General information, not advice
Across Australia, primary school covers the first year of school to Year 6, and secondary school covers Year 7 to Year 12. Within that structure there are several school types.
Primary and infants schools
Primary schools teach from the first year (Kindergarten, Prep, Reception, Pre-primary or Transition, depending on the state) to Year 6. A few NSW schools are infants schools teaching only up to Year 2.
High schools and colleges
High schools usually teach Years 7 to 12. Some areas split this into junior campuses (Years 7–10) and senior colleges (Years 11–12). In Tasmania and the ACT, separate colleges for Years 11 and 12 are standard.
Central and community schools
Common in regional NSW and other states, these schools teach primary and secondary students on one campus, often from Kindergarten to Year 12.
Selective and specialist schools
Selective schools admit students by test rather than address. Specialist schools focus on areas such as performing arts, sport, technology, languages or agriculture, and may have auditions or applications.
Schools for specific purposes
These schools support students with disability or high support needs. Placement is arranged through the education department rather than by home address.