Integrated schools

The term 'integrated schools' generally refers to schools with a religious focus – usually Roman Catholic in denomination – that used to operate as private institutions. In recent years, these schools have been integrated into the state system – hence the name 'integrated schools'. Integrated schools receive the same Government funding for each student as state schools but their buildings and land are privately owned so they charge attendance dues to meet their property costs. Although they follow the state curriculum requirements, all have retained their special religious or philosophical character. A small number of institutions, such as Montessori or Rudolf Steiner schools, are secular in character.