How School of the Air Works
A practical guide to online lessons, home learning supervision, assessment and student connection in Australian distance education.
School of the Air is a form of school-based distance education. It began with two-way radio for geographically isolated children and now usually uses online classrooms supported by digital and printed material.
There is no single national School of the Air. Programs are run through state and territory education systems, and some providers use “School of Distance Education” or another name instead.
The roles in a distance classroom
The student
Students attend scheduled lessons, complete independent work, submit assessments and communicate with their teachers. Attendance and participation requirements still apply even though the student is not in a conventional classroom each day.
The teacher
Registered teachers plan and deliver the curriculum, run live lessons, assess work, provide feedback and monitor progress. They also help the family adapt the program where appropriate.
The learning supervisor
A learning supervisor is the adult present where the child studies. This is commonly a parent or carer, although another suitable adult may fill the role under the school’s rules.
The supervisor is not expected to replace the classroom teacher. Their practical role can include setting up materials and technology, helping the child follow the timetable, supervising activities and staying in contact with the school.
A typical week
Programs differ by year level and provider. A week may combine:
- live video or audio lessons
- small-group and individual teacher sessions
- offline reading, writing and practical activities
- uploaded or posted assignments
- feedback and progress checks
- contact with classmates
- local visits, school camps or activity days.
This blend matters. Live lessons create routine and connection, while independent work gives students time to complete the curriculum from home.
Technology and materials
Internet access is central to many current programs, but schools recognise that remote connections can be unreliable. Ask whether lessons can be joined by another method and whether recordings, printed units or offline resources are supplied.
Families should also check what computer, headset, camera, printer, software and workspace are required, who supplies them, and whether technical support is available.
Enrolment and support
Eligibility, year levels and fees are set by the relevant jurisdiction and school. Geographic isolation may qualify a student, but other categories can exist.
Tell the school early about disability, health, language or learning needs. Distance education providers are covered by the Disability Standards for Education 2005 and must consult and consider reasonable adjustments.
Use the School of the Air locations guide to find official department information. Confirm current enrolment rules directly with the provider rather than relying on an old national list.