When it comes to choosing a school for your child, it's important to find the right school that will work for your child and your family.
Schools in the Territory start with transition class and then move to years 1 through 12. International students often commence in senior secondary for years 10, 11 and 12.
There are two types of schools in Australia - independent (sometimes called private schools) and government schools.
The Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (NTCET) is awarded at the end of year 12 to students who successfully meet its requirements. With the right combination of subjects, students may then qualify for an Australian Tertiary Entrance Rank (ATAR). An ATAR is recognised by universities internationally and at all universities in Australia.
Information on schools
We have an education directory that provides details on all government and non-government schools in the NT.
You can go to the MySchool website to find out more information on a school's:
- Profile
- Enrolments
- Financial information
- NAPLAN results
- Year 12 results
You can apply to enrol your child in a school of your choice, but priority is given to students living in the school's priority enrolment area.
If a school is approaching or has reached capacity, it will decline applications from students living outside its priority enrolment area.
You can go to the Department of Education website for more information about priority enrolment.
You must enrol your child in school from the age of 6.
The stages of schooling are:
- Primary - transition to year 6.
- Middle - year 7 to year 9.
- Senior - year 10 to year 12.
You can find out more about the stages of schooling.
When choosing a school for your child, you should consider all of the following:
- If the school caters for your child's needs and interests.
- What facilities the school offers
- The school policies on homework, discipline and wellbeing
- What other activities and services are available - eg: after school care.
- Proximity to home, work and carers.
- Size of the school
- Teaching methods and classroom environment
- Assessment and reporting procedures
- Extracurricular activities
- Communication between home and school
- Parental involvement - eg: school council.
- It may help to visit the school, and talk to the principal and teachers.
School websites also have useful information on the culture and philosophy of a school and provide information on resources and activities.
Information is also available on the MySchool website.
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Childcare
A range of child care and preschool services is available to your family in the Northern Territory.
University
Be inspired by some of the brightest minds, connect with local industry, network, and create an amazing future here in the Northern Territory
International students
Studying in the Northern Territory will give you a quality education, genuine employment opportunities, and a chance to connect with like-minded people.
VET / TAFE
Vocational educational and training (VET) gives you skills and knowledge to do a job in the workplace such as in retail or an office, or in a trade.