Independent Boarding Schools in the Northern Territory
Boarding schools are educational institutions that provide students with accommodations, meals, and care away from their family homes. This environment supports academic success, helps students build routines, fosters independence, and offers access to opportunities for personal growth.
There is a proud tradition of providing boarding places for Aboriginal students, particularly those from remote areas. All Independent boarding schools in the Northern Territory are co-educational, with separate boarding facilities for male and female students.
Boarding schools offer a range of residential options to accommodate student needs. The majority of boarders stay for the full study term, returning home during term breaks. Some schools, such as Tiwi College, provide weekly boarding, allowing students to stay on campus during the week and return home on weekends.
Most boarding schools have on-campus residential facilities, such as St Philip’s College and Haileybury Rendall School, which originally operated as hostels for students from remote communities before expanding into day schools. Yirara College and Tiwi College also provide residential boarding facilities; however, all students enrolled are full-time boarders. Others offer off-site accommodation, such as Marrara Christian College, which provides residential homes where students live with ‘House Parents’ in a structured and nurturing environment.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Boarders
In the Northern Territory, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students make up the majority of boarding students, with 367 out of 373 boarders in
Independent Schools identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (AISNT 2023 Snapshot). Boarding schools play a pivotal role in providing
education for these students, particularly in remote or disadvantaged communities where secondary schools are scarce or under-resourced.
Boarding can also reduce school disruptions within communities. For many students, attending a boarding school is the only way to access consistent and stable education opportunities. These schools provide access to wellbeing supports, wider academic pathways—including university
options—leadership development, and exposure to diverse cultures.
However, families may face challenges when sending their children to boarding schools, such as reduced parental agency and the emotional impact of homesickness from being away from Country and family. This highlights the importance of boarding schools maintaining strong relationships with families, ensuring cultural continuity, and providing adequate support for students during their transition.
International Students
Australia's renowned education system, political stability, and multicultural inclusivity make it a top choice for international families. Creating safe, supportive and inclusive environments. In the Northern Territory, Haileybury Rendall School is the only independent boarding school accepting international students.
Benefits
Provides students with access to education,
or offers higher-quality education.
Ensures a safe and secure environment for
students.
Remove geographical barriers for students
from remote communities.
Allows for stable and consistent schooling.
Foster strong peer relationships and social
connections.
Support higher academic outcomes, greater
independence, and resilience.
Challenges
Funding barriers to cover tuition costs, scholarships, and financial sustainability.
Challenges attracting, recruiting, and training skilled boarding staff.
Infrastructure costs—maintenance, upgrades, and refreshing facilities, equipment, furniture, and technology.
Student wellbeing—supporting mental health, students with disabilities, diverse needs, and ensuring holistic care.
Independent Boarding Schools
Haileybury Rendall School
Marrara Christian College
Palmerston | Christian Education | Family Home Groups
Website: Marrara Christian College
