Options Vital In Selection
Sun Herald
Sunday April 26, 1998
INABURRA Christian School at Menai has a television studio and leans towards creative arts, while McDonald College at Strathfield specialises in performing arts.
At Burwood's MLC School, students carry laptops with mathematical, graphics and English programs instead of textbooks, and St Paul's Grammar School at Penrith offers the international baccalaureate as an alternative to the HSC.
NSW Association for Independent Schools executive director Terry Chapman said educational options offered by private schools attracted many families.
"When parents contact us they are usually looking at matters quite separate from TER scores," Mr Chapman said.
"They are looking for an all-round education, discipline and a school which can cater for a child's special interests."
Changes to private school approval and funding criteria introduced in the mid-1970s created rapid growth in private school numbers and increased variety in educational styles.
The International Grammar School, which opened 15 years ago, provides specialist language classes to all students, while the Pittwater House Schools offer annual country retreats.
At The Kings School, headmaster Dr Timothy Hawkes has a vision of establishing Australia's first "centre for leadership".
"We want our students to understand that leadership is not just about a reserved spot in the car park," he said.
"It's about rolling up your sleeves and being prepared to serve."
Waverley College has introduced a Learning Support Centre, which operates during normal class hours and after school to help students with study skills and supervise homework and support students with learning difficulties.
The centre also offers programs for gifted and talented students requiring extra challenges.
At Cranbrook School, director of admissions David Stone said: "We want to create well-rounded individuals, but we do take the academic side very seriously." -
© 1998 Sun Herald