Typical day at an Australian high school
8:30 a.m. Ride or walk to school, chat with friends before first class
9:00 a.m. First class, could be English or Australian history
11:00 a.m. Short break, or recess. Talk with friends or prepare for later classes.
11:20 a.m. More classes, such as art history or economics.
1:30 a.m. Lunch. Most Australian students bring lunch to school, but you can also buy lunch in the school cafeteria, or “canteen.” This is a chance eat with friends.
2:10 a.m. You will attend more classes in the afternoon, such as chemistry or mathematics.
3:30 a.m. Classes end, but after-school activities begin. Join the swimming team, try out for the school theatrical production or write for the school newspaper.
Australian high schools
Australian schools offer academics and much more. Studying as an exchange student in Australia is an excellent way to become more fluent in English, make new friends and experience Australian life to its fullest.
Friendly schools with a formal twist
In Australia, teachers are friendly to students, but it is still important to call them “Mr.” or “Mrs.” and treat them with respect. Most Australian schools require uniforms that often include:
- For girls: skirts or trousers, blouses and blazers.
- For boys: trousers, ties and blazers.
Many schools also place restrictions on jewelry, piercings and makeup.
After-school activities
In addition taking academic classes, Australian students participate in sports, clubs and weekend events. Life outside the classroom is important to Australian teenagers, and you will easily make new friends and learn English when you participate in sports and clubs. Try to get involved in after-school activities as soon as possible. Some activities include:
- Rugby
- Choir
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Photography
- Basketball
- Drama
- Debate groups
The Australian school system
Australian schools start in year 1, when students are 5 to 6 years old. They go to year 12, when students are 17 to 18 years old. After year 12, students choose to attend university, technical schools or enter the workforce.
Which grade will you study?
Australia is divided into six states and two territories, each with slightly different school systems. Depending where you live, “high school” could refer to years 7 through 12, years 10 through 12 or some other combination of years. Every school is different, so there are no universal rules. In general, most EF exchange students are placed into year 10 or 11.
School starts in January, summer break is in December
Because Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, the height of summer is in December. This is when students get a summer break. School starts in January or February, with shorter breaks between semesters in April, July and October.
Choosing academic courses
EF high school exchange students must take English and Australian history. Typically, Australian students are also required to take mathematics. You get to choose other academic course. Some of your choices might include:
- Australian literature
- Chemistry
- Biology
- French
- Economics
- Advanced mathematics
- Art history
- Physics
- Wood shop
- Social sciences