Non-state schools can be accredited to provide different types of education such as primary, secondary, or special education.
To add a new type of education at an existing accredited or new site, governing bodies must submit a
new type of education application. Read about how to
submit your application.
Schools already accredited for primary or secondary education do not need special education accreditation to teach enrolled students with disabilities.
The Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) will assess the application to add a new type of education to ensure the following (section 21 of the Act):
- the governing body is suitable to continue operating the school
- the site (new or existing) is appropriate for delivering the new type of education
- the school will meet accreditation criteria requirements by the student intake day.
The application must include the following (section 19 of the Act):
- details of the governing body and school
- the type(s) of education being applied for
- proposed student intake day(s) for the new type(s) of education and each year level (at least 6 months after the application is submitted)
- location(s) of site(s) where the new type(s) of education will be offered
- accreditation attributes for the new type(s) of education
- evidence of the governing body's suitability
- copies of valid blue cards for governing body directors
- evidence that the school will meet accreditation criteria requirements for the new type of education.
We may ask for additional information or documents if needed. Read more about
processing and deciding applications.
Governing bodies must ensure that new or modified sites meet legislative requirements for land use, building standards and workplace health and safety. Read more about
land and building requirements.