Live and learn

From Queensland to Tasmania, cities and suburbs all across Australia have been seeing an insatiable demand for homes in close proximity to schools. According to the Domain 2020 Schools Catchment Report, in the last 12 months alone Melbourne saw house prices rise by double digits in more than 90 school catchments, while Sydney recorded increases of more than 30 per cent in several areas. It’s a similar story in less populated states too, with an astounding 72 per cent of school zones experiencing a price rise in Brisbane, and demand for some public-school catchments in Western Australia driving home values up by more than 35 per cent.

What’s behind these remarkable growth rates? First is population growth. Australia’s population is growing through migration and registered births. Second (and consequently), is the rising number of new student enrolments every year. And last but not least, is the pace at which new schools can be created to cater for new students — currently lagging in many places as governments and private schools search for suitable land. Taken together, these conditions have made existing school zones a much sought-after commodity, elevating home values by virtue of nothing more than proximity.

Aside from the obvious reason to buy property in a particular school zone, it also provides a great opportunity for homeowners and investors to improve their property equity. With demand for schools set to rise even more in the coming years, property values in popular school areas are set to follow suit. It’s why every Frasers Property community is designed to include new education facilitates as part of its masterplan, or is located in close proximity to existing schools and childcare. 

Early learning

Before school even enters the equation, the hunt is on for the perfect early learning centre that ticks all the boxes, while remaining close to home. 

One such place is Ignite Early Learning, coming soon to Ed.Square in Sydney’s Edmondson Park. The centre’s team have gone to great lengths and detail to ensure they deliver precisely what mums, dads, carers, and kids need in a high-quality early learning centre. Visually, the stunning design and state-of-the-art fitout is sure to create an amazing environment for the kids, while childcare services are tailored to the individual child’s needs, encompassing elements such as their development ability, education, health, and wellbeing priorities such as allergies, religious beliefs and more. 

Also in Sydney is Midtown MacPark, a community that is starting to take shape in the heart of Macquarie Park. Here, there are two childcare centres and a school proposed to service future residents. Meanwhile, at Melbourne’s Burwood Brickworks, the Insight Early Learning Centre focuses its curriculum on sustainability and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education, with children able to learn and immerse in the innovative rooftop farm located above the Burwood Brickworks shopping centre. 

Across the country at Baldivis Grove in Western Australia, the Busy Bees centre provides early learning for infants to preschool age. There’s a dance program to help build coordination and motor skills, a gardening program, and a school readiness program to help children create new friendships and prepare them for the transition to school. 

Primary School

Starting school is a momentous occasion in any child’s life — and their parents, for that matter. Providing the foundation for years of learning to come, it’s important to be picky when choosing a primary school. At Frasers Landing, in Mandurah, Western Australia, you’re spoilt for choice with Dudley Park Primary and Mandurah Catholic College nearby. 

At Brookhaven in Queensland, a range of educational facilities from childcare all the way through to tertiary institutions all lie within a 10km radius. Tucked away in this suburban idyll, you’ll find the popular Edens Landing, Windaroo, and Beenleigh state schools. 

And for future residents of The Waterfront, Shell Cove on the NSW south coast, Shell Cove Primary offers education with a coastal flair.

High School

A time for making friendships and memories that can last a lifetime, high school looms large in every teenager’s life. Helping to get them to class on time, high schools are proposed within several Frasers Property communities, including Mambourin, The Grove, and Five Farms in Melbourne; while existing schools like Coodanup College in Mandurah, Baldivis College in Baldivis, Perth, and St Francis Xavier College in Berwick are all a quick bus trip away. 

Higher Education

When it comes to tertiary education, location continues to be a big driver, especially for students who continue to live at home with mum and dad while they earn their degrees. At Fairwater in Blacktown, Australian Catholic University’s newest campus is bringing more choice to western Sydney students. In even closer proximity is Midtown MacPark to one of the country’s best-regarded universities, Macquarie University — a short stroll from Midtown’s village green. And from the elevated landscape of Keperra Quarry, you can see TAFE Queensland’s Grovely Campus below. 

Lastly, in the leafy Melbourne suburb of Parkville, Parkside presents a rare opportunity for inner-city living with both Melbourne University and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology just a quick tram ride away. 

Schools rule

If you’re planning a family, or already have one underway, living close to schools is a huge bonus when it comes to convenience. But it can also help drive your home’s long-term property value. When looking for your new home, it’s important to do your research and choose wisely.  For more information on early learning facilities, schools, and universities in and around Frasers Property’s communities around the country, give us a call at 13 38 38.