Risk-based regulation
How does NESA implement a risk-based approach to the regulation of non-government schools?
Under Sections 50 and 55 of the Education Act, NESA may request the principal or proprietor of a school or proposed school to provide such documentary or other evidence in support of an application for initial or renewed registration as NESA considers necessary based on a risk assessment.
The risk assessment considers factors related to the determinants of student learning and history of compliance including the accreditation and experience of teachers, the standard of teaching, the quality of the educational program, enrolment and attendance and changes in management and operational context.
The breadth and depth of the material to be uploaded by schools with an application for registration, and the material to be reviewed during an inspection, will vary according to the outcome of the risk assessment process.
As part of the risk assessment process, applicants for registration will be required to certify compliance with the requirements for registration and, if relevant, accreditation.
In addition to the certification, schools assessed as lower risk will be required to provide material demonstrating a basic level of assurance while schools assessed as higher risk will be required to provide materials related to the risk profile of the school.
The NESA risk-based approach recognises that the level of risk of non-compliance for a non-government school may vary over time in relation to internal and external factors impacting on its operation. For this reason, the risk-based approach is responsive to emerging issues and changed circumstances at all times.