The war between Essington International School and Haileybury Rendall School is good for Darwin parents

COMPETITION in the Darwin private school sector is welcome news to parents who want more options for their children

Competition between schools will be good for Darwin students

COMPETITION in the Darwin private school sector is welcome news to parents who want more options for their children.

The fact Essington International School and Haileybury Rendall School are fighting for the best students and teachers can only lead to great outcomes.

Essington has been the leading private school in Darwin since it first opened in 1990 and it continues to provide a quality education for its 1200 students.

Haileybury Rendall School only entered the fray this year and its curriculum is regarded as one of the best in the nation. In August, it was named Australia’s best school.

One of the greatest barriers for the Territory to flourish is the perception that our children can’t get a nation-leading education. This perception needs to change.

Territory-wide, our NAPLAN results are poor compared to other states but other states and territories don’t have the same challenges we do, especially dealing with disadvantage in remote communities.

While Essington and Haileybury have big profiles, Darwin and the Territory is also blessed to be able to offer quality public, independent and Catholic-based education.

Parents, whether they prefer private, independent or public education, now have more choice than ever.

It’s now up to those in charge of our schools and education sector to promote the great things that are happening in the Territory. If we can convince the rest of Australia we can offer a great education for primary and secondary students, we have boundless potential.