The Evolving Role of CaRE Schools
In Western Australia, CaRE schools have evolved far beyond their early reputation as "last resort" settings. Today, these schools are recognised as safe, flexible, and supportive learning environments where young people can learn, heal, and thrive.
As their role grows, so does the need for stronger collaboration with mainstream education to ensure all students receive the support and opportunities they need.
Why Collaboration is Essential
As our Principal Paul Jones noted in his conversation with Chris Massey, Executive Director of AISWA, collaboration is more than goodwill—it requires systems, sustainable funding, and recognition of CaRE schools as equal partners in the education landscape.
"Government needs to recognise CaRE schools as legitimate, long-term pathways in their own right, not just steppingstones back into mainstream. At the same time, we need investment in smoother transitions and shared initiatives that prevent students from falling through the cracks," Paul explained.
Providing Choice and Flexibility for Students
Chris Massey emphasised the importance of choice and flexibility in education:
"If a young person is seeking an education that is faith-based or focused on a specific trade, there needs to be availability and flexibility to move across schools to find the right fit. Collaboration between CaRE and mainstream schools is vital to making that happen."
Building Bridges, Not Silos
Educators across the sector are calling for bridges instead of silos. By creating joint programs, shared professional learning, and pathways that honour diverse student needs, both CaRE and mainstream schools can contribute to an inclusive education ecosystem where every young person has the chance to succeed.
Benefits for Families, Students, and Western Australia
For families, stronger collaboration means fewer barriers and more educational choices. For students, it provides belonging, stability, and hope. For Western Australia, it strengthens the education system by recognising diverse learning pathways as vital to building brighter futures.