Assessments, combined with data from reporting programs, help the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) reduce risks and ensure schools comply with legislative requirements.
Assessment process
Before an assessment, we notify the governing body, with notice periods depending on the circumstances outlined in legislation.
Authorised persons are appointed to conduct the assessment, request information in writing, and schedule a visit with the school.
After the visit, authorised persons provide a report to NSSAB with recommendations on whether the school and governing body meet legislative requirements.
NSSAB reviews the report and may request more information.
Once satisfied, we notify the governing body of the outcome, which may include enforcement action if necessary.
Read more about
enforcement action.
Routine assessments
NSSAB provides notice before a routine assessment, which must begin on or after the initial assessment day—at least 60 days after the student-intake day and within 6 months.
These routine assessments are required by legislation at specific stages of a school's accreditation:
Initial assessments
NSSAB conducts initial assessments for new schools or existing schools offering a new type of education (e.g. primary, secondary or special education).
These assessments occur 60 days to 6 months after the student-intake day for the new education type, after notice has been given to the governing body.
Establishment phase assessments
A school is in establishment phase when it is approved to offer year levels that will commence after the initial student intake day. For example, a school site may initially provide primary education for Prep to Year 3 and progressively commence years 4, 5 and 6 over the next 3 years.
Assessments are conducted 60 days to 6 months after the student-intake day for the final year level within each sector of schooling. NSSAB will notify the governing body before the assessment.
New-site assessments
New-site assessments occur when a school begins operating at a newly accredited location.
NSSAB conducts these assessments 60 days to 6 months after the site starts operating, with prior notice to the governing body.
Other assessments
NSSAB may conduct additional assessments to address risks or suspected non-compliance, including:
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monitoring assessments—to ensure a governing body remains suitable to operate a school
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investigative assessments—to investigate potential breaches of the legislation, such as operating without accreditation.