Few decisions in life are more important than choosing the learning environment that will support your child to grow, thrive, and feel a sense of belonging

Independent Schools in the Northern Territory offer families genuine choice, with learning environments that reflect the values, needs and aspirations of their communities. As self‑governed schools, they are responsive, locally led and able to shape their programs in ways that best support their students.


Across the NT, Independent schools vary in size, ethos, educational philosophy and curriculum offerings. This diversity means families can choose a school that aligns with their child’s interests, strengths and cultural or community connections.

In the Northern Territory:
  • Children must start school in the year they turn 6, if their birthday is before 30 June.
  • Students must remain in school until the end of Year 10.
  • After Year 10, young people must be in education, training, or employment until they turn 17.

Learn more: https://nt.gov.au/learning/primary-and-secondary-students/age-your-child-attends-school

Why Choose an Independent School?

Independent Schools are autonomous and self-governed where they are run by their own school boards. This means each school makes decisions about:


  • Educational programs and curruculum
  • Financial management
  • Staffing and leadership
  • Community partnerships
  • School priorities and direction.


This Autonomy allows schools to respond quickly and thoughtfully to the needs of their students and communities.

A Shared Funding Model

Independent schools receive a combination of government funding and parent contributions to support the cost of educating each student. This shared funding model enables schools to provide programs, facilities and learning environments that best meet the needs of their communities.

What to consider when choosing a school

Every family is different. When exploring your options, you may want to think about:


  • school size and environment
  • location and boarding needs
  • curriculum and learning pathways
  • your child’s interests and support needs
  • cultural or faith‑based preferences
  • specialist programs or activities
  • communication between the school and families
  • opportunities for parent involvement


Choosing a school is about finding the place where your child feels safe, supported, and inspired to learn.

Enrolling your child in an NT Independent School

Each Independent School manages their own enrolment processes where the best first step is to get in direct contact with the school.


Parents may be asked to provide:

  • Your child's birth certificate,
  • Identification documents
  • previous school reports (if applicable)


If you don't have access to these documents, many schools can assist you in obtaining them.


Most Independent Schools outline their enrolment procedures, school fees and application forms on their website.

Darwin

Alice Springs

Remote

  • Dhupuma Barker - (Gunyangara)
  • Gamardi School - (Gamandi)
  • Gäwa Christian School - (Elcho Island)
  • Mäpuru Yirralka College - (Mapuru)
  • Nawarddeken Academy - (Kabulwarnamyo, Manmoyi, Mamadawerre)
  • Nyangatjatjara College - (Yulara, Imanpa, Docker River)
  • Yirara College - (Kintore)

In remote communities, enrolment is usually handled face‑to‑face rather than online. Schools work directly with families in community, so the best way to enrol is to talk with the school team in person or by phone.

The Back to School Payment Scheme aims to help families offset the cost of textbooks, stationery, school uniforms, and other essential school items. Parents or guardians of students enrolled in a Northern Territory school are entitled to receive a $200 voucher per student.


The payment is available for each student to receive educational items in Term 1 of each school year.


Find out more on the DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WEBSITE »