# Overview
Mareeba State High School is a public secondary school serving Mareeba and the surrounding Far North Queensland community. It provides a comprehensive, values-based education focused on student wellbeing, learning, and community involvement.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Typically around 22–26 students
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-oriented with a balanced emphasis on academics, sport and wellbeing
# Academics & Learning
Mareeba State High School emphasises solid foundational learning across key subjects, with opportunities to pursue strengths in STEM, English and leadership, alongside pathways into Vocational Education & Training (VET) and senior study.
- Academic strengths: English, mathematics, science and STEM-focused learning, leadership development, and literacy/numeracy improvement initiatives
- Special programs: VET courses and practical pathways; opportunities for leadership roles and senior study planning
- NAPLAN / trends: Ongoing focus on improving literacy and numeracy with targeted supports; steady, corrective trends through intervention and classroom practices
- Student-teacher ratios: Roughly 1:16–1:22, depending on year level and subject
- Support for diverse learners: EAL/D support, SEN support, learning support services and targeted interventions to help students achieve their goals
# Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Sports and extracurriculars are a strong focus, with a range of options to suit students who are sport-oriented as well as those with interests in arts and clubs.
- Sports offered: Rugby league, cricket, football (soccer), netball, basketball, athletics, swimming, tennis, and other regionally available activities
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in district/regional competitions with opportunities to contribute to school teams
- Music, arts, drama programs: School bands/ensembles, performing arts activities and drama productions
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other student-led clubs
- Partnerships: Local clubs and district competitions collaborate with the school to provide pathways and competition opportunities
# Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
A strong wellbeing framework supports students’ social and emotional growth, alongside their academic progress.
- Anti-bullying approach: Proactive anti-bullying and respectful relationships programs; clear reporting and support pathways
- House system: House-based pastoral care with activities and events to foster belonging
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support students
- Transition support: Orientation programs for new students (e.g., Year 7 transitions) and ongoing transition assistance between year levels
# Facilities
The school offers a range of facilities designed to support learning, sport, arts and technology.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centres
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
# School Values & Community Culture
The school’s values and culture guide daily life, student interactions and expectations.
- School values / mission: Focus on respect, responsibility, resilience and community engagement
- Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive leadership with teacher and community involvement
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct emphasizing respectful behavior and positive relationships
- Community reputation: Locally respected for its supportive environment and community connections
- Diversity & inclusion: Welcoming to students from diverse backgrounds with inclusive practices
# School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical information helps families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typically a daytime schedule aligned with standard Queensland public school hours
- Before/after school care: Available or coordinated through local providers; check with the school for current arrangements
- Uniform requirements: School uniform required; standard dress code for everyday wear and a separate sports uniform
- Transport: School bus services and public transport routes within Mareeba; drop-off/pick-up arrangements coordinated with families
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or meal program options
- Fees: Public schooling involves low to moderate costs for uniforms, resources and activities; some items may incur additional costs for excursions or materials
# Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is handled through the school with standard documents (proof of residency, identity, immunisation where required, and prior school records). Timelines align with the Queensland school year; enrolments are accepted in advance of the start of term, with ongoing intake subject to space and capacity.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists may apply for Year levels with higher demand. Applications are typically processed by date of submission and availability, with priority given to siblings and then other applicants as spaces allow.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- For a non-selective public high school, there are generally no entrance tests or formal interviews. Admissions are based on residency and space. You may be asked to provide documentation and to meet standard enrolment criteria.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to space and availability. Prospective transfers should contact the school early, provide current records and transcripts, and complete the standard enrolment process.
# Frequently Ask Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A stable, supportive community with a focus on wellbeing, practical pathways (including VET), and opportunities across academics, sports and arts.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are engaged, collaborative, curious and willing to participate in both academic and co-curricular activities; those who value a balanced approach to learning and wellbeing.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Strong core subjects plus VET pathways, leadership opportunities, clubs (robotics, coding, debating), music and drama programs, and a range of sport teams and competitions.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates via newsletters, emails, a parent portal or learning management system, school social channels, and annual events or information evenings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered learning with differentiated instruction, emphasis on literacy and numeracy, use of technology and practical, inquiry-based activities.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Learning support services, targeted interventions, tutoring opportunities, EAL/D support where needed, and access to guidance from teachers and counselors.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Early identification of needs, personalised learning plans, in-class supports, and referral to specialist staff as required.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: newsletters, portals, emails, and scheduled events.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically 22–26 students, with teacher responses and supports designed to provide meaningful student-teacher interaction and feedback.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad range of sports (team and individual), music and drama programs, robotics, chess, coding, debating and other student clubs.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, a cafeteria and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools in learning, use of online platforms and resources to support collaboration, research and project-work, with appropriate device access.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local school bus services and public transport connections; accessible facilities and responsive support for families.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Public school fees are generally low to moderate, covering uniforms, materials, and standard activities; occasional additional costs may apply for excursions or extra programs.
# Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Public, community-focused environment with a supportive wellbeing framework
- Balanced emphasis on academics, sport and arts
- Range of VET and senior study pathways
- Active student clubs and local partnerships
- Cons
- As a regional, non-selective public school, competition for limited spots in certain programs may exist
- Transport options depend on local routes and services
- Some specialized programs may require travel to other facilities or partnering schools for broader offerings
