Education
The South West earns top marks when it comes to education.
The opportunity to learn while enjoying a lifestyle envied around the world ensures the South West is a great place to be a student.
The region offers a multitude of options for learning, including the opportunity to study towards formal education and training qualifications. And if you simply want to learn and improve your skills, there are a range of exciting classes and courses that provide avenues for you to pursue your interests.
Higher education and training
Bunbury’s Edith Cowan University is the largest university campus in regional Western Australia. It offers a comprehensive range of courses in arts, business, engineering, nursing, teacher education and social work. The campus is part of an educational precinct comprising the South West Regional College of TAFE and the Bunbury Health Campus, which includes St John of God Hospital and South West Area Health Services.
South Regional TAFE offers high-quality, accredited vocational education and training that assists students to realise their career aspirations. Students can study a selection of courses at campuses scattered throughout the region, including Bunbury, Busselton, Collie, Harvey, Manjimup and Margaret River.
The Rural Clinical School of WA has locations in Bunbury and Busselton in the South West, giving medical students the opportunity to practice their skills as they work towards completing their qualifications. Students undertake a year-long program in the second last year of their medical degree, working in small teams with local academic staff, doctors, medical professionals and mentors.
The Apprentice And Traineeship Company offers employing and training for youth in a variety of vocations including engineering, carpentry, electrical, business and retail to child care, horticulture and viticulture.
Primary and secondary schools
There are a range of public and non-government schools in the region. A full list of public primary and secondary schools can be found on Schools Online on Department of Education’s website. Non-government school education in Western Australia falls into two categories, Catholic schools and Independent schools. Enquiries about Catholic schools should be directed to Catholic Education Western Australia. The Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia (AISWA) represents and promotes the interests of Independent schools. Students with special learning needs are catered for at education support centres. The WA College of Agriculture – Harvey offers modern education and training programs, and residential facilities, for young people in Years 10, 11 and 12. There are also independent schools like Manea Senior College.
Early learning
For children taking their first steps towards an education, there are a range of options for little kids getting ready for ‘big’ school. Early learning centres are available throughout the region.
Boarding
In addition to private and government high schools, secondary-aged students have the option of attending schools offering boarding facilities.
Boarding facilities are offered at the WA College of Agriculture − Harvey, and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School.
Regional opportunities
Community Resource Centres operate throughout the region. CRCs provide rural and remote towns with access to technology such as video conferencing facilities, information, training and other services.
Classes and courses are also offered at a community level including at local arts centre.
