Overview
Clarkson Community High School is a public, co-educational secondary school serving students in the Clarkson area of Perth’s northern suburbs. The school offers a comprehensive program for Years 7–12, with a focus on developing academically skilled, socially responsible young people who contribute positively to the school and broader community. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, with a medium-sized student community that supports collaboration and individual growth.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, diverse, with a focus on academics and wellbeing
Academics & Learning
Clarkson Community High School emphasizes a broad curriculum designed to prepare students for further study, trades, or workforce entry.
- Academic strengths: Strong in English and STEM subjects, with opportunities to develop leadership and language skills.
- Special programs: Accelerated learning options and pathways for gifted/talented students; leadership development opportunities; exposure to a range of VET and academic pathways.
- Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL students and students with special educational needs (SEN), including targeted intervention and inclusive teaching practices.
A key consideration for many families, Clarkson Community High School offers a variety of sports and clubs to suit different interests and talents.
- Sports offered: Soccer, basketball, netball, cricket, athletics, volleyball, and traditional school sports; opportunities for inter-school and district competition.
- Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school teams with participation in regional and district events; emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and personal bests.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts programs, with opportunities for ensembles, bands, choirs, and school productions.
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, science clubs, and student leadership groups.
- Partnerships: Connections with local community clubs, regional academies, and participation in district-level competitions and events.
Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a central pillar of student success at Clarkson Community High School, with multiple supports in place.
- Anti-bullying approach: Proactive, restorative practices aimed at creating a safe and respectful school environment.
- House system: A house-based framework to foster belonging, competition, and peer support (where applicable).
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counselors and wellbeing staff to support academic, social, and emotional needs.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and targeted induction to help new students settle in smoothly.
Facilities
The school’s facilities support a wide range of learning experiences and activities.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music / performing arts centers
- Tech / innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
- Modern classrooms with flexible learning spaces
Clarkson Community High School aims to foster responsible, respectful, and resilient students who contribute positively to the community.
- School values / mission: Emphasis on respect, integrity, inclusion, and excellence in learning.
- Leadership style: Collaborative, student-centered leadership with teacher and staff guidance.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear behavior codes that promote safety, respect, and accountability.
- Community reputation: Strong sense of community involvement; active parental and local partnerships.
- Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and talents, with programs to support all students.
School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical information to help families plan around school days.
- School hours: Typical day runs from morning start around 8:30–9:00 am to around 3:00–3:30 pm.
- Before/after school care: On-site or nearby OSHC (outside providers) options available; check current arrangements with the school.
- Uniform requirements: School uniform required; details available through the uniform shop or school administration.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Accessible by local bus services and nearby train connections (Clarkson Station on the Joondalup Line); consider school transport options and timetable planning.
- Canteen availability: Canteen or pop-up lunch options on site; supports healthy meal choices.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): As a public school, there is no compulsory tuition; typical costs relate to materials, excursions, and voluntary contributions, varying by year level.
Enrolment & Admissions
Key steps and timelines to help families understand the process.
- What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Begin with an online or paper enrolment form through the Department of Education processes; timelines vary by year and intake period. Provide required documents (proof of address, immunisation status, birth certificates, etc.) and submit by the school’s published deadlines. After submission, clearance and placement decisions follow departmental guidelines.
- Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists may apply when year groups reach capacity. Acceptance from the waiting list is often based on catchment proximity, availability of places, and priority rules set by the education department. Parents are notified according to the established timelines.
- Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- In most cases for public WA high schools, entry is based on catchment and availability; there are typically no entrance exams. Some out-of-area or selective placements may involve additional considerations or interviews; details vary by year and cohort.
- Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers can be possible if space is available and all enrolment documentation is provided. Transfers usually require approval from the school and must align with Department of Education processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A balanced approach to academics, strong wellbeing supports, and a broad range of extracurriculars in a welcoming community.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value a supportive environment, engaging learning experiences, and opportunities to participate in sports, arts, and clubs.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Accelerated learning options, leadership development, STEM and language programs, competitive sports teams, music and drama programs, robotics, coding, and debating clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates via newsletters, the school website, parent portals, and parent-teacher evenings; special notices as needed.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered teaching with a focus on core skills, critical thinking, and inclusive practices to support diverse learners.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted interventions, EAL and SEN support, tutoring and small-group tutorials, and individualized learning plans where appropriate.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to counsellors, learning support staff, and tailored interventions to address gaps and strengthen progress.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Duplicate question)
- See above: newsletters, portals, and events; proactive alerts for important information.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A wide range of sports, music, arts, robotics, coding, debating, and other clubs; opportunities to compete in district events.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts centers, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Emphasis on digital literacy, integrated technology in learning, and responsible use of devices across subjects.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus services and proximity to Clarkson Station on the Joondalup Line; accessibility considerations addressed through school and district plans.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public school basics are provided; additional costs relate to materials, excursions, and optional activities.
Short Pros & Cons list
- Welcoming, inclusive community with strong wellbeing supports
- Solid academics with opportunities for acceleration and leadership
- Broad range of extracurriculars including sports, arts, and clubs
- Modern facilities and supportive staff
- Out-of-area families may face waiting lists or transfer considerations
- Public school costs beyond compulsory provisions (materials, excursions) vary by year
