Education for your children
Children from age 6 to 16 must attend school and there are a lot of excellent schooling options on the Sunshine Coast.
You must enrol your child or children in a school as soon as possible.
You will need to show your travel documents and children must have the required immunisations in order to go to school.
Many people put their children in childcare while they work or study. The Australian Child Care Index helps you find the right child care to suit your needs. They have a full listing of day care centres, kindergarten, pre-schools, nannies and babysitters.
Attending school
Children attend thirteen years of formal education (plus non-compulsory preschool or kindergarten).
Preschool
Also called kindergarten is not compulsory for ages three to five
Primary School
| Prep | Ages 5 to 6 |
| Grade 1 | Ages 6 to 7 |
| Grade 2 | Ages 7 to 8 |
| Grade 3 | Ages 8 to 9 |
| Grade 4 | Ages 9 to 10 |
| Grade 5 | Ages 10 to 11 |
| Grade 6 | Ages 11 to 12 |
Secondary School
| Grade 7 | Ages 12 to 13 |
| Grade 8 | Ages 13 to 14 |
| Grade 9 | Ages 14 to 15 |
| Grade 10 | Ages 15 to 16 |
| Grade 11 | Ages 16 to 17 |
| Grade 12 | Ages 17 to 18 |
Schools directory
Government schools are called 'state' schools. Tuition at state schools is free.
Private schools require you to pay fees.
The best way to choose a school is to visit the school, meet the staff and ask questions.
You can use the Queensland Government's Schools Directory to find a school in your area by searching on the school name or the name of your suburb.
Extra support to learn English language
If your child needs extra support learning English, talk to the Principal at their school. Primary and high school students in State Government schools may be eligible to receive extra help.