Choosing a school for your child is about more than the location. School is pivotal to a child’s development, so it’s important to consider your child’s unique needs and passions when making this critical decision. While public schools are assigned based on catchment areas, private high schools give parents the flexibility to pick the right school – not just the nearest one.
Beyond the freedom of choice, there are a multitude of benefits of attending a private high school. From a safe and supportive environment to enhanced educational programs, there’s a whole host of reasons to enrol your child in an independent school. At Carey, we understand that just as every child is unique, so are the reasons parents may choose one school over another. In this article, we’re outlining the top five benefits of a private high school and what sets Carey apart.
Smaller Class Sizes
Individual attention is fundamental to student development. Unfortunately, large class sizes make it hard for teachers to provide every student with equal, adequate attention.
At Carey, we commit to maintaining small class sizes, which helps our educators give every student the time they deserve. Greater individual attention means more time for meaningful conversations and better flexibility in the curriculum to adapt to students’ needs. One-on-one interactions also help teachers identify their students’ strengths, areas for improvement and any potential developmental needs.
Exceptional Facilities and Resources
One of the most notable benefits of secondary private schools is the amenities available to students. At Carey, we aim to foster a lifelong love of learning and we find that our exceptional facilities encourage students’ natural curiosity. Our state-of-the-art classrooms are equipped with the latest technology to provide an optimal learning environment, while modern science labs, art studios and music rooms allow students to deeply engage in specialised subjects.
Our beautiful Kew and Donvale campuses feature inspiring architecture and serene landscapes, creating a peaceful and stimulating setting for both study and recreation. In addition to the main campuses, our Bulleen Sports Complex features expansive playing fields, indoor basketball courts and a swimming pool with grandstand seating. We’re also proud to offer Camp Toonallook, a four-hectare Outdoor Education facility on the shores of Lake Victoria, and Carey Zero, a Year 10 program with a component based in Far North Queensland. Students are more likely to feel enthusiastic about coming to school each day when their physical environment is inspiring, stimulating and promotes connectedness.
Academic Results
Private schools in Melbourne have strong performance in academic rankings compared to public schools. In fact, of Victoria’s 50 top high schools, 44 of them are independent*.
Carey is proud to be in the top 50 schools in Victoria, while being a non-selective entry school. Our inclusive, supportive environment encourages students to strive to do their best, while making sure to appreciate and acknowledge their different strengths.
In 2023 we were proud of our student’s outstanding academic results, as we are every year. The following is an overview of the combined results of both International Baccalaureate (IB) and Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) cohorts:
- 3.9% of ATARs were above 99 (in the top 1% of the state)
- 18.6% of ATARs were above 95 (in the top 5% of the state)
- 35.3% ATARs were above 90 (in the top 10% of the state)
- 60.1% of all ATARs were above 80 (in the top 20% of the state)
- The median Carey ATAR was 84.5.
At Carey, we celebrate all of our students’ varied talents and recognise the skills they develop beyond the classroom.
*As of 2024.
Carey takes a holistic approach to education. While academic results are important, they only account for one part of a child’s learning journey. We help students find their passions and provide the resources they need to hone their skills.
From the earliest year levels, students are exposed to a wide range of sports, musical instruments, artistic styles and more. If your child wants to explore rowing, we have teams ready for them to join; if they’re a keen diver, we have a dedicated diving pool for them to practise in. If your child enjoys public speaking, we have an award-winning debate team they’ll love competing with – and a performing arts program for the orators with dramatic flair. Our curriculum and co-curricular activities allow students to follow their passions.
We also provide IB, VCE and VET options for students in Years 11 and 12, making sure they can choose the academic pathway that best suits their interests and learning styles.
As an independent school, Carey is proud to have the facilities and experienced staff required to support the unique needs of every student.
Community is one reason that many parents choose to send their children to independent schools. At Carey, we value open communication between parents and our staff and make it a priority to involve parents in the Carey community.
Through frequent updates on students’ wellbeing and academic successes and regular parent-teacher-student conferences, parents know their child’s teachers and are invited to be involved in their child’s education.
Students at Carey forge strong, lifelong friendships and connections. Even after they’ve left the school, they become part of the Old Carey Grammarians Association (OCGA). This connects them with an engaged and diverse community of alumni made up of over 19,000 members around the world.
The close-knit community at Carey encourages strong relationships among students, parents and teachers, creating a supportive network that benefits students beyond their school years.
Experience the Benefits for Yourself
Discover the benefits of an education at Carey – register to attend an Open Morning or tour to explore our beautiful campuses and learn more about our holistic approach to education. Or apply online to experience the Carey difference for yourself.
