Suburban Parent Satisfaction in Public Schools Varies Widely

An analysis of parental satisfaction with public secondary schools across Melbourne revealed significant variation in scores. Schools in Stonnington had the highest average parental satisfaction at 89.2%, while schools in Cardinia, Nillumbik, and Melton had the lowest at 55.8%, 59.1%, and 61.5% respectively.

In Casey, which is part of Melbourne’s growth corridors, parental satisfaction averaged 72.9%, driven by high scores at select-entry Nossal High School (96.3%) and Cranbourne West Secondary College (97.6%). Experts noted that growth areas face unique pressures, including transport issues and overcrowded facilities.

Statewide, schools that offer education from prep to year 12 had lower satisfaction scores (70.1%) compared to standalone secondary schools (74.1%). Regionally, Pyrenees Shire had the highest satisfaction at 93.8%, while Wodonga had the lowest at 48.2%.

Two Melbourne schools, Box Hill Senior Secondary College and Bindjiroo Yaluk Community School, received 100% parental satisfaction. Cranbourne West Secondary College principal Rob Duncan attributed the high satisfaction to strong student engagement, VCE results, and effective bullying management.

Parents Victoria chief executive Gail McHardy emphasized that satisfaction scores reflect multiple factors, including relationships between schools and families, safety, and teacher availability. She urged caution in interpreting results as a definitive measure of school quality.

In Cardinia Shire, parents expressed concerns about bullying and student suspensions despite recent building upgrades. One parent noted that while teachers were effective, disciplinary actions did not always lead to behavioral change.