About the review
In October 2022, the Queensland Government announced a comprehensive, independent review of the accreditation framework used for non-state schools in Queensland and released the review's
Terms of Reference.
The Non-State Schools Accreditation Framework (the Accreditation Framework) is embedded within the
Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Act 2017 and Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Regulation 2017.
The purpose of the review is to make sure the accreditation framework is fit for purpose, supports the provision of quality education and maintains public confidence in Queensland's non-state schools.
In line with the Terms of Reference, the review will look at the regulation of non-state schools in other jurisdictions, assess the powers currently in place, consider the balance between imposing standards and minimising regulatory burden, and make recommendations for improvements.
The review will not consider or make recommendations about state schooling, home education, government funding of non-state schools, or regulatory or standards frameworks in other fields.
About the Independent Reviewer
On 15 March 2023, the Queensland Government
announced the appointment of Ms Cheryl Vardon as the Independent Reviewer leading the non-state schools accreditation framework review.
Ms Vardon has a distinguished career as an educator and is recognised for her leadership in the protection of vulnerable children and young people.
She is an experienced reviewer of complex systems. In 2016 and 2017, Ms Vardon led a series of reviews for the Queensland Government leading to practical systems reform measures to keep vulnerable children more than safe. The reviews have become industry benchmarks.
Ms Vardon established and was appointed as the inaugural Chair of the Queensland Child Death Review Board in 2018 and currently chairs the North West Queensland Hospital and Health Services Board.
Ms Vardon brings unique insights into contemporary governance frameworks.
In delivering her independent findings and recommendations to the Minister for Education, Ms Vardon will be supported by a dedicated team within the Department of Education.
Review principles
The review will be guided by the following principles.
- Students and their families are at the centre of the review.
- A quality, safe and supportive educational environment is essential for students to learn and thrive.
- Choice of schools for families is an important part of the Queensland education system.
- Consultation and collaboration will underpin findings for a contemporary regulatory environment.
Submissions closed
Stakeholders consultation for the review ended Monday 15 May 2023 and submissions are no longer being accepted.
The review is now in its final stages, with findings to be considered by the Queensland Government. Further information will be available in due course.
Contact us
All enquiries regarding the review should be emailed to
NSSAF.Review@qed.qld.gov.au.