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School type starting with D

Demonstration School (1884-)

A school used to demonstrate educational methods to trainee teachers, and to give them practice in teaching. From 1928 the term Demonstration School replaced the previous term Practice School. These schools were ordinary schools with the demonstration function added; they are not specifically designated in the database.

Distance Education Centre (1991-)

Distance Education Centres were established in 1991 in strategic locations throughout the state to deliver education to those students who are isolated or whose special circumstances prevent them from attending regular schools. Some Distance Education Centres operate from within regular government schools and are not identified in this database, but are listed on the Department's website. See also reference to the Open Training and Education Network (OTEN) under Correspondence School.

District School (1906-1945)

A school containing both primary and secondary departments, which first emerged in 1906. They were mostly established in country districts as adjuncts of Superior Public Schools, and were designed to provide a two-year course of study for qualified children preparing for entry to the Teachers College; more generally, they provided higher education for country children. By 1914 District Schools had developed into schools offering literary or academic courses like those taught in High Schools and Intermediate High Schools. Many were promoted to Intermediate High Schools as their enrolments increased, and others formed the basis for the establishment of separate High Schools.

District Rural School (1923-1977)

A school combining primary and secondary departments, which emerged in 1923 to provide a pre vocational education for the country child. A three year post‑primary course was offered, including agriculture, applied farm mechanics and rural economics for boys, and home science and horticulture for girls. From 1926 agricultural, commercial, home science and technical courses were made available, with the Intermediate Certificate being adopted as the final examination. From 1944 all District Rural Schools were classified as Central Schools, but the special designation was often retained by the school. In theory it indicated the type of secondary course offered, although in practice even before the introduction of comprehensive secondary education District Rural Schools were often no different from other forms of post-primary schools.