How to choose a school

Things to consider when making a decision

When selecting a public primary school, there are many factors to consider. What is important to you and your child may be not be the same as other families.

To help you make a decision, think about:

• the school’s reputation in the local community 
• its location and how close it is to where you live and public transport
• any specific educational programs or curriculum focus, such as music or sports
• its ability to cater for children with disability or additional learning needs
• the availability of special religion or ethics classes
• services for students from non-English speaking backgrounds
• the general condition of the buildings, classrooms and playgrounds
• before and after school care (BASC) as well as vacation care options.

To help decide if a school is the best fit for your child, it can help to:

• visit the school's website
• attend an open day
• talk to other parents you know who have children at the school
• make an appointment with the principal to discuss any questions in person.

You can find the public schools in your local enrolment area using the NSW Public School Finder

Choosing a school outside your catchment zone

Public primary schools can accept enrolments from parents who live outside that school’s local enrolment area if places are available.

But there is no guarantee that your application will be successful.

Applications from parents outside a local enrolment area are usually assessed on a range of criteria, including:

• if siblings are already enrolled at the school
• if you have a child with disability or additional needs that are better met at this school
• medical reasons such as improved access to specialist local health services
• special interests and abilities such as language or music classes.

There are usually separate forms for applications to attend a school outside your catchment zone.

Check with the school to confirm application requirements and cut-off dates.