Money talks
Independent schools receive limited financial support from the Government, so are heavily reliant on student fees to fund the running of the school. Each school forms its own fee structure, usually ranging from NZ$4,000 to $14,000 per year for a New Zealand resident child. Fees for international students are significantly higher. As a student progresses through the school system, fees are increased. The charging of relatively high fees is the most obvious factor separating independent schools from state-funded education providers.

Does independent schooling mean better education?
Mark Harrison, a consultant with expertise in education issues, claims that “the private school advantage” comes from better teaching, policies, school organisation and educational practice. Private or independent schools in New Zealand are often perceived as being superior to their state school equivalents, and in fact they do reach higher levels of student achievement when students of the same ability level are placed side by side. Independent schools also show better outcomes for young people from minorities and low socio-economic groups. Mostly, the advantages of attending an independent school come from the school’s high level of autonomy, better governance and a competitive drive on the part of school to provide quality education in return for high tuition fees.

The cream of the crop
The selection process within independent schools has caused some debate in New Zealand. In contrast to the zoning admission process, which allows entry to students from a geographically defined area, independent schools often select students on the basis of an interview and their academic achievements to date. While this may encourage elitism, it is also seen as one of the primary means by which New Zealand private schools can choose to cater specifically for gifted or high achieving learners. For some, paying the tuition fees at an independent school can be less expensive than buying an in-zone house to attend a popular state school.

Boys and girls
Both co-educational and single-sex options are available when selecting an independent school in New Zealand. Some are co-educational only at a senior level, in Years 12 and 13. Several previously single-sex schools are now in the process of transition to cater for both boys and girls.

From preschool to leaving school
Independent schools span the spectrum of learning, from preschool to secondary education. Many independent schools have preschool facilities for children aged 2 to 5 years. In this case, there is no obligation to continue your child’s education at the school, but parents often choose to do so. From the age of five, independent schools use a variety of teaching methods to maximize and enhance the child’s learning experience. At the age of 13, children enter a more academically challenging environment and hone their natural skills. Some independent schools are composite, catering for students throughout primary and secondary school, or from the age of 11 through to 17 or 18 years of age.

Independent or private schooling can provide a better chance of success in education. Parents will pay a premium, but in return independent schools generally work hard to ensure a positive and supportive learning programme. Independent schools are not afraid of overachievers and, unlike many state schools, they have the teachers and the facilities to motivate and allow students to let their talents shine. Yet despite these strengths, we shouldn’t forget the large number of quality state schools that work with funds from the Government coffers to provide education at a lower cost. When choosing between state and independent education providers, visit a number of schools and get a feeling for the school’s atmosphere, its teachers and the programmes on offer, then choose a school based on its merits.

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