From 1 January 2026, all Queensland non-state schools will be required to fully implement the revised Guideline for Educational Programs. This update does not change the fundamental principles of curriculum planning but introduces a stronger emphasis on how schools store and manage documentation. The Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) expects schools to demonstrate not only that their curriculum is designed and delivered effectively but also that evidence of this planning is securely stored and easily accessible for compliance and accreditation purposes.
Three-Tiered Documentation
The guideline requires schools to maintain documentation across three distinct levels of planning: whole-school, year-level, and unit or lesson plans. Whole-school plans should outline the strategic curriculum framework, including the school’s philosophy, aims, and long-term approach to curriculum delivery. Year-level plans must provide age-appropriate learning sequences mapped to achievement standards, while unit and lesson plans should detail lesson-by-lesson sequences, assessment strategies, and differentiation practices. These documents collectively form the backbone of a school’s educational program and must be stored in a way that ensures integrity and accessibility.
Document Storage Requirements
From 2026 onwards, schools will need to adopt a systematic approach to document storage. This means implementing a centralised digital repository that allows authorised staff to upload, access, and manage curriculum documents securely. Version control will be essential, with systems tracking when documents were created or updated, by whom, and what changes were made. Logical organisation is also critical, with clear folder structures or tagging systems that separate whole-school, year-level, and unit plans. Schools should also establish a retention policy that archives previous versions for at least five years, ensuring historical records are available for review when required.
Access and Security
Access control will play a key role in compliance. Schools must ensure that only authorised personnel can edit documents, while leadership teams and auditors have appropriate read-only access. This approach not only supports transparency but also protects the integrity of the documentation. While the guideline does not prescribe specific technical solutions, it makes clear that schools must be able to provide comprehensive, well-organised evidence of curriculum planning and assessment at all levels.
Preparing for Compliance
To prepare for these requirements, schools should begin auditing their current documentation and storage practices. This includes checking that all curriculum plans follow the three-tier structure and are stored in an organised, retrievable format. Implementing a digital storage solution that supports version control and secure access should be a priority. Staff training will also be essential to ensure everyone understands their responsibilities for document creation, upload, and compliance. Finally, schools should establish regular review cycles to maintain accuracy and alignment with the revised guideline.
Take Aways
Compliance from 2026 is not just about having curriculum plans in place; it is about proving their existence, accessibility, and integrity. By investing in a structured document storage system now, schools will safeguard accreditation, streamline audits, and reinforce a culture of transparency and accountability.
Have a Question About The New Changes and How It May Affect Your School?
If you need assistance or legal advice regarding the above, Vocare Law can well assist. Contact our office on 1300-VOC-LAW / 1300-862-529 or email: enquiry@vocarelaw.com.au
This article was written by Jack Macpherson and Eustacia Yates.
Educational Program Compliance Checklist (2026 onwards)
1. Whole-School Documentation
- Strategic curriculum framework documented and stored
- Philosophy and aims are clearly linked to curriculum planning.
- Alignment evidence with the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration
2. Year-Level Documentation
- Year-level plans mapped to achievement standards
- Differentiation strategies documented for diverse learners
- Assessment pathways included in plans
3. Unit and Lesson Plans
- Detailed lesson sequences stored with clear learning outcomes
- Formative and summative assessments are embedded
- Feedback and scaffolding strategies documented
4. Document Storage System
- Centralised digital repository implemented
- Version control enabled (track changes and updates)
- Logical folder structure or tagging system in place
- Retention policy established (minimum 5 years)
- Access control configured (edit vs read-only permissions)
5. Staff Training and Processes
- Staff trained on document creation and upload procedures
- Compliance responsibilities communicated clearly
- Regular review cycles scheduled for accuracy and alignment
6. Readiness for NSSAB Review
- All documentation easily retrievable for audits
- Evidence of implementation across all three planning levels
- Archived versions available for historical review
**The information contained herein does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice and is for general informational purposes only.
