Parents Continue to Choose Independent Schools

AISV, 17 April 2009

The Chief Executive of the Association of Independent Schools of Victoria (AISV), Ms Michelle Green, has welcomed the news that enrolments in independent schools in Victoria have continued to rise.

According to the Victorian Government School Census, the number of students in independent schools in Victoria rose by two per cent in the twelve months to February 2009 to total more than 120,000 students.

‘The rise in enrolments is a further endorsement of the quality education offered by the 220 independent schools in Victoria,’ Ms Green said.

‘Over the last five years the number of students in Victorian independent schools has grown by almost 14,000 representing a 13 per cent increase.

‘There has been a decrease in the number of overseas students which might reflect international economic conditions. If this trend is excluded, total independent school enrolments grew by a healthy two point four per cent.

‘We know that the entire community is increasingly under financial pressures as a result of the prevailing economic climate but these enrolment figures confirm that parents continue to value highly the education provided by independent schools throughout Victoria.

‘The continuing increase in enrolments is testament to the community’s strong commitment to independent schools and demonstrates parents’ continuing confidence in the philosophy and ethos of each school.

‘Independent schools in Victoria have continued to attract students despite on average only receiving a fraction of the funding available to government schools.

‘At a time when government budgets are under increasing pressure every additional student at an independent school lessens governments’ overall investment in education.

‘I would expect that the Victorian Government will welcome the news of increased enrolments in independent schools because it demonstrates that its policies promoting choice for parents and excellence in all schools is working, but of course more can be done to invest in education for the future of Victoria and Australia.'

 

 

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