If you’re a parent in Perth feeling stuck about high school options for your teenager, you’re definitely not alone. Maybe your child learns differently, has a passion for the arts, or just doesn’t seem to fit the traditional school mold—and that’s completely okay. Perth actually has some fantastic alternative secondary schools that think outside the box, offering everything from Montessori and Steiner approaches to programs designed specifically for creative kids, students with learning differences, or those who need more flexible schedules.
If your teen does better in smaller classes, loves getting their hands dirty with project-based learning, or simply needs a more tailored approach to education, these alternative schools focus on helping each student grow as an individual while still delivering solid academics and real preparation for whatever comes next.
Understanding Alternative Education
What makes Perth’s alternative schools so different from your typical high school? For starters, they actually see your teenager as a whole person – not just a test score or a seat in a classroom. Instead of forcing every kid through the same rigid curriculum at the same pace, these schools get creative. They might let students dive deep into subjects they’re passionate about, learn through hands-on projects, or take a completely different approach to how and when learning happens. It’s education that bends around your child, rather than expecting your child to bend around the system.
Benefits of Alternative Education
Alternative education prioritises personalised learning experiences. With smaller class sizes, teachers can give more attention to each student’s unique needs. This environment often results in improved academic outcomes and higher student engagement.
Another benefit is the emphasis on holistic development. Programs typically incorporate emotional and social learning, arts, and practical skills. This approach ensures students not only excel academically but also develop essential life skills.
These schools often foster a strong sense of community. Students, parents, and educators collaborate closely, creating supportive learning environments. This communal approach encourages positive relationships and enhances learning experiences.
Types of Alternative Schools
There are several types of alternative schools in Perth, each with distinct philosophies and curricula.
- Steiner/Waldorf: Holistic development, creativity, age-appropriate learning
- Montessori: Child-led learning, mixed-age environments, independence
- CARE Schools: Re-engagement-focused, therapeutic support, small class sizes
- Studio Learning: Project-based, real-world application
- Recovery Education: Trauma-informed, relationship-centred approaches
How Alternative Schools Differ from Mainstream Schools
Alternative schools differ from mainstream schools in several key areas. Unlike traditional schools that follow a standardised curriculum, alternative institutions often customise learning plans to suit each student’s needs and interests. This flexibility allows for a more engaging and tailored educational experience.
Assessment methods also vary. Mainstream schools typically rely on standardised testing, while alternative schools may use portfolios, project-based assessments, and narrative evaluations. These diverse methods provide a more comprehensive understanding of a student’s abilities.
The teacher-student relationship is another distinct aspect. In alternative schools, educators often act as guides or facilitators rather than authoritative figures. This approach nurtures a collaborative and respectful learning environment, fostering a more positive and productive educational experience for students.
Best Alternative Secondary Education Schools in Perth
Alta-1
Alta-1 provides alternative education pathways for disengaged students across Western Australia and Queensland. This innovative school offers both campus-based and online programs designed specifically for young people aged 12-18 years who have struggled in mainstream educational settings.
Students at Alta-1 benefit from individualised learning plans that prioritise wellbeing and belonging over rankings and results. The school’s approach recognises that learning is a personal journey, offering flexible pathways that include middle school and senior secondary programs leading to the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).
The school operates through multiple delivery methods including ConnectEd (online learning for students experiencing severe anxiety or depression), campus-based classes in supportive informal environments, and Vocational Education Training (VET) options. These programs combine academic studies with practical workplace learning experiences and therapeutic support.
Alta-1’s educators serve as both teachers and mentors, trained to understand complex needs and foster interpersonal and life skills. The school creates a safe space where students can explore, question, make mistakes, and grow while receiving dedicated support from qualified educational and wellbeing staff.
The school’s philosophy centres on curiosity-led learning and gaining respect by giving it, acknowledging each student’s agency, individuality, and curiosity. This holistic approach aims to help students make positive life changes and prepare for further education through TAFE or other tertiary institutions.
Year Range: Years 7-12 (Ages 12-18)
Location: Multiple campuses across Perth Metro, Great Southern (Albany), and Kimberley (Kununurra)
Main Campus: 12 Winton Road, Joondalup WA 6027
Contact: (08) 9403 8200
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Bold Park Community School
Bold Park Community School is a progressive, innovative independent school that operates across two vibrant locations in Perth. The school is deeply committed to the rights of children and young adults, believing every child deserves an educational environment that nurtures boldness and joy in learning.
The school follows a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to education, which goes beyond being simply a learning style to become “a journey that shapes inquisitive, engaged, and creative thinkers.” This philosophy emphasises treating each child as a unique individual while fostering creativity and equipping students with real-world problem-solving skills that bridge classroom learning with the broader community.
Bold Park takes the conventional Western Australian curriculum and goes beyond it to cultivate a supportive and dynamic environment where every child can thrive and achieve. The school’s educators intentionally design meaningful learning programs that matter to the community, with students experiencing collaboration regardless of age or subject.
The school operates with a “whole school focus” across two campuses: the Wembley campus caters for children aged 18 months to Year 9, while the Maylands campus serves young adults in Years 10 to 12. Programs include Wilderness Playgroup (18 months-3 years), Early Childhood (ages 3-5), Primary School (Pre-Primary to Year 6), Middle School (Years 7-9), and College (Years 10-12).
Bold Park offers diverse specialist programs including Arts (Dance, Drama, Music, Culinary Arts, Media, Visual Arts), Digital Technologies, Design Technologies, Bluearth Physical Education, and unique initiatives like the “Outta Boundz” program that presents older students with challenges such as surfing and woodwork to promote environmental and community engagement.
Year Range: 18 months to Year 12
Locations: Wembley and Maylands
Wembley Campus: 61-63 Powis Street, Wembley WA 6014
Maylands Campus: 76 Seventh Avenue, Maylands WA 6051
Contact: (08) 9387 5050
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Youth Futures Community School
Youth Futures Community School provides disengaged young people with an appropriate alternative to traditional high school education. Operating across multiple Perth locations, the school offers a flexible and supportive environment where students can complete their studies while receiving comprehensive wraparound support tailored to their individual needs.
Students at Youth Futures Community School benefit from access to passionate teachers, youth workers, social workers, a psychologist, and numeracy and literacy coaches. The school is registered with the Department of Education as a Curriculum and Re-Engagement in Education (CaRE) School, enabling students to complete nationally accredited courses including Certificates in General Education for Adults and workplace skills qualifications.
The school’s approach recognises that mainstream education isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly young people who have faced barriers such as bullying, mental health challenges, learning difficulties, or homelessness. With smaller class sizes and a more structured classroom environment than some alternative programs, the school focuses heavily on curriculum delivery while maintaining emphasis on personal development, work readiness, health and wellbeing.
Youth Futures Community School also operates Comet Connect, an innovative mobile classroom service that brings education directly to students who cannot attend traditional campus settings. This custom-fitted mini bus with dedicated trainers can meet young people at home or preferred locations, providing flexible access to Certificate courses at a pace that suits individual students.
The school’s holistic approach ensures students receive the extra one-on-one support they need to reach their potential, with individualised study plans and comprehensive support services designed to help young people successfully transition beyond their education into further training or employment opportunities.
Year Range: Years 8-12 (Ages 15-19)
Locations: Albany, Caversham, Clarkson, Midland
Main Contact: (08) 9300 2677
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Port School
Port School provides a unique alternative for adolescents who find mainstream education challenging. The school prides itself on catering to students who struggle in traditional settings, offering specially designed programs that address their needs.
Upon enrolment, students take an ACER test to assess their literacy and numeracy skills. This computer-based assessment helps tailor the educational experience to each student’s specific requirements. The results inform targeted support and interventions to help students succeed.
Port School also runs unique programs like the Mobile Classroom Program and the Young Parent Centre.
Year Range: Years 8- 12
Location: 62 Wheeler Rd, Hamilton Hill WA 6163, Australia
Contact: +61 8 9335 6323
Website: Visit Website
The Studio School
The Studio School in Fremantle provides a unique approach to education for Year 10-12 students. It offers a studio model where students combine academic studies with real-world projects to achieve their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) and, if desired, an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
Students at The Studio School benefit from individualised learning plans. These bespoke programs are tailored to each student’s interests and abilities, departing from traditional one-size-fits-all education models. This can lead to a more engaging and enriched learning experience.
Mentorship and support are core values at The Studio School. Each student receives dedicated mentoring, ensuring they get the attention and assistance needed to thrive, regardless of their ability level. The school’s flexible curriculum includes diverse learning pathways and community projects.
The school fosters an environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a passion for learning. This holistic approach aims to positively impact students, allowing them to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Year Range: Years 10- 12
Location: 28 Adelaide St, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Contact: +61 8 6275 2500
Website: Visit Website
Indie School
Indie School operates as an independent alternative high school with campuses in Midland, Ellenbrook, and Mirrabooka, serving eastern and northern Perth communities. The schools focus on re-engaging students in flexible and welcoming educational environments, currently supporting the education and wellbeing of students from Years 9 to 12.
All campuses offer various learning options, including the VET in Schools programme and the Let’s Go Out of Class Programme through their onsite Registered Training Organisation, Indie College. These programmes provide industry-specific courses and nationally recognised qualifications that contribute towards completing students’ secondary schooling certificates.
The schools’ experienced and qualified coaches deliver training in environments conducive to student achievement. Indie School boasts remarkable success stories, including students who were previously illiterate learning to write within six months and successful cohorts of Year 11 students completing their West Australian Certificate of Education units 1 and 2.
Year Range: Years 9-12
Locations: Midland, Ellenbrook, and Mirrabooka
Contact: 1800 046 343
Website: Visit Website
IDEA
IDEA is an alternative secondary education school located in Perth, offering a tailored approach to education. Its core mission is to support young people in their final years of education by providing a learning environment that is engaging and relevant.
The academy offers a range of courses and certificate programmes, including Certificate III and IV qualifications. Students also have opportunities for hands-on work experience, which helps them transition smoothly into their chosen careers.
Enrolling at IDEA involves an initial meeting with the team to discuss individual needs and interests. This ensures that each student receives a customised pathway plan. Parent testimonials highlight the supportive and innovative environment at IDEA, praising the unique approach that helps students feel valued and confident.
Year Range: 10-12 (Academy), Ages 17-24 (Diploma)
Location: L1/191 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Contact: +61 1300 354 872
Website: Visit Website
SEDA College WA
SEDA College WA is an independent secondary school that takes a unique approach to senior education, focusing on hands-on learning and real-world industry connections. The college is proud of its approach of “walking side by side with students, changing lives and connecting communities” and was recently recognized as the winner of The Educator 2024 5-Star Innovative School Award.
Students complete their Years 11 and 12 through an individual approach to learning that provides opportunities to develop real skills for a successful future. The college operates on the philosophy of applied learning, underpinned by core values of Growth, Resilience, Empathy, Accountability and Teamwork (GREAT).
SEDA College WA offers two main educational pathways: Sports Development Programs and a Construction and Trade Program. The Sports Development Programs partner with major Western Australian sporting organizations including Basketball WA, Fremantle Dockers, Perth Glory, Perth Scorchers, Netball WA, Tennis West, West Coast Eagles, RugbyWA, and a Bunbury MultiSport program.
The Construction and Trade Program, developed in partnership with BGC Australia, is designed for students who want to develop practical skills and knowledge needed to obtain apprenticeships in the building and trade industry. Students gain real-life learning opportunities, work placements, and industry connections. The program includes Certificate II in Construction Pathways, WACE courses, workplace learning, and pathways to school-based apprenticeships and traineeships.
Year Range: Years 11-12
Location: Multiple campuses across Western Australia
Head Office: Level 1, Suite 5 East, 353 Cambridge Street, Wembley WA 6014
Contact: (08) 9486 6230
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Perth Waldorf School
The Perth Waldorf School offers a unique and time-tested curriculum that has evolved over the last century. It provides an educational journey designed to mirror the inner development of students. All incoming pupils, regardless of grade, adapt smoothly to this natural progression.
At the core of its philosophy, the school does not seek out specific types of students. Instead, it welcomes a broad spectrum of styles and abilities, fostering a diverse and healthy learning environment. The curriculum is officially recognised by the W.A. Office of Non-Government Education.
The Waldorf approach covers Early Childhood, Primary School, and High School education. It includes distinct phases such as Parent and Baby Groups, Playgroups, and Kindergarten in the early years. Primary education involves students staying with the same teacher throughout their early schooling, cultivating strong educational relationships.
In High School, the focus shifts to developing critical thinking skills. Various programmes and activities, such as the Class 12 Project Presentations, provide enriching experiences.
Year Range: Kindy to Year 12
Location: 14 Gwilliam Dr, Bibra Lake WA 6163, Australia
Contact: +61 8 9417 3638
Website: Visit Website
Perth Montessori School
Perth Montessori School is an independent, co-educational, inner-city school established in Burswood over 40 years ago. The school offers authentic Montessori education for children from birth to 18 years, following the National Montessori Curriculum which is fully aligned with the Western Australian Curriculum.
Students at Perth Montessori benefit from a unique educational approach that places each individual at the centre of their learning journey. The school operates through multi-age classrooms where children develop as independent learners, problem solvers, and critical thinkers in an atmosphere of mutual respect. This approach encourages curiosity and fosters lifelong learning skills while reducing social pressures to conform.
The school’s holistic programs progress through distinct stages: Playgroup (birth to 3 years), Children’s House (3 to 6 years), Lower Primary (6 to 9 years), Upper Primary (9 to 12 years), and the Adolescent Program (12 to 18 years). In the senior secondary years, students undertake project-based learning through the Big Picture Education model, which allows them to design their own learning around personal interests and passions.
The Adolescent Program utilises the International Big Picture Learning Credential, warranted by the University of Melbourne, providing alternative pathways to university undergraduate degrees. Students work with individual learning plans, complete internships in the community with adult mentors, and present their work at public exhibitions. This approach enables personalised pathways to university, TAFE, or employment based on each student’s interests and goals.
Year Range: Birth to Year 12 (Ages 0-18)
Location: 150 Burswood Road, Burswood WA 6100
Contact: (08) 9362 3186
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
The Montessori School Kingsley
The Montessori School Kingsley holds the distinction of being Australia’s longest-running Montessori school and was the first school in the world to offer the International Baccalaureate programme.
Students at The Montessori School Kingsley benefit from authentic Montessori education that treats each child as a unique individual, focusing on their physical, intellectual, and social development within mixed-age classrooms. The school’s approach is grounded in scientific understanding of childhood development, providing a balanced blend of structure, freedom, and guidance that allows children to learn at their own pace.
The school caters to children aged 3 to 18 through carefully structured programmes: Pre-Primary (ages 3-6), Lower Primary (ages 6-9), Upper Primary (ages 9-12), Lower Secondary (ages 12-15), and Upper Secondary (ages 16-18). The educational journey culminates in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), which provides a globally recognised tertiary entrance qualification.
The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) as an alternative pathway, designed for students pursuing career-focused education. This programme combines four core components (Personal and Professional Skills, Service Learning, Reflective Project, and Language Development) with career-related studies, preparing students for higher education, apprenticeships, or employment.
Year Range: Ages 3-18 (Pre-Primary to Year 12)
Location: 18 Montessori Place, Kingsley WA 6026
Postal Address: PO Box 194, Landsdale WA 6065
Contact: (08) 9409 9151
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Parkerville Steiner College
Parkerville Steiner College is an independent, co-educational Steiner high school set on 25 acres of beautiful bushland in the Perth Hills. Opened in 2022, the college operates as a campus of Perth Waldorf School, bringing many years of experience in Steiner high school education to the Perth Hills region.
The college follows Steiner education principles, also known as Waldorf education, which is a holistic approach that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Their aim is to develop independent and creative thinkers by embedding meaning into learning so real understanding and application takes place, guided by Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy: “Our highest endeavour is to develop young people, who out of themselves are able to impart meaning and direction to their own lives.”
The school’s curriculum is nationally recognised and accredited, ensuring students are well-prepared for future academic pursuits while receiving an education that honours their individuality and fosters a lifelong love of learning. The approach focuses equally on academic, artistic, social, practical, and cultural development, creating well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also imaginative and compassionate.
Located only 45 minutes east of Perth, Parkerville Steiner College works in partnership with Silver Tree Steiner School to provide families seeking Steiner education in the Perth Hills with a seamless education journey from playgroup to high school. The college offers a natural learning environment where strong relationships between students, teachers, and families create a supportive and inclusive community.
High school students are exposed to a wide variety of views and subjects, with educators who are experts in their field providing a dynamic, broad-based, academically rigorous and interdisciplinary curriculum. Teachers balance high expectations with support, guidance and warmth of relationship, meeting each individual student’s strengths and challenges with a holistic understanding of adolescent development.
Year Range: 7-12 yeard
Location: Parkerville, Perth Hills (next to Silver Tree Steiner School)
Address: 695 Roland Road, Parkerville WA 6081
Contact: (08) 9295 4787
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Rockingham Montessori School
Rockingham Montessori School is a leading alternative and independent school in Perth that has been providing Montessori education since 1985. Located minutes from the beach, the school is dedicated to Montessori philosophy and practice, currently delivering high-quality education to around 250 children and young people across multiple campuses in Rockingham and Port Kennedy.
The school offers a comprehensive Montessori education program from infancy through to Year 12, with programs designed to encourage independence, respect, and self-discipline within a nurturing and caring learning environment.
What makes Rockingham Montessori School unique is its integration of The Big Picture Program into the Adolescent Program. This program was created to modernise education by steering away from traditional learning techniques to create a personalised, passion-based schooling experience. The Big Picture program complements Montessori philosophy by nurturing independent, curious and creative children, offering students a portfolio-based pathway to university.
The Montessori approach at RMS acknowledges the individual needs of each student, with curriculum tailored towards each child’s academic, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development. The school fosters independent, respectful children who excel at working in teams and showing respect for their community, developing cognitive, emotional, social, and physical skills necessary for continuous self-growth.
Year Range: 1-18 years (Infant Toddler Program through Year 12)
Locations: Rockingham and Port Kennedy campuses
Address: 7 Attwood Way, Rockingham WA 6168
Contact: (08) 9528 2118
Email: Contact via website
Website: Visit Website
Treetops School
Treetops School is a unique Montessori and International Baccalaureate school situated in the incredible natural environment of Darlington, in the hills east of Perth. Formed in 1989, Treetops is a close-knit community of parents, staff and students that provides a broad, harmonious, and thorough education from Pre-Kindergarten through to Year 12.
The school embodies the concept of being culturally Montessori in its operations and identifies as being ‘Montessori inspired’. Treetops delivers the WA curriculum in a Montessori-inspired environment from Early Years through to Year 10, creating a non-comparative and non-competitive environment that develops each student as an individual and encourages them to reach their full potential.
What makes Treetops particularly distinctive is its senior school offerings. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) has been offered at Treetops since 2007, making it the only accredited IBDP Year 11 and 12 provider in the Eastern Perth Hills region, and one of only a few schools in Western Australia to achieve this standard. From 2021, Treetops also offers Year 11 and 12 students the WACE General Studies programme as an alternative option to the IBDP.
The school’s vision is “Preparing the individual to make a world of difference,” with a mission to provide dynamic inquiry-based education that empowers individuals to reach their unique potential within a natural and respectful setting. The school holds at its core the value of each individual child as a learner who is at the centre of the learning process.
Treetops believes students should be presented with a challenging and broad academic environment that encourages intellectual inquiry and critical thinking, with education being the shared responsibility of students, family and school. The school nurtures curiosity and creativity as the key to stimulating exploration and discovery throughout life.
Year Range: Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12
Location: Darlington, Perth Hills
Address: 12 Beenong Road, Darlington WA 6070
Contact: (08) 9299 6725
Email: [email protected]
Website: Visit Website
Making the Right Choice
When considering alternative education options, it’s important to:
- Assess your child’s specific needs – learning style, social-emotional requirements, and academic goals
- Visit schools to get a feel for the environment and teaching approaches
- Speak with current families to understand their experiences
- Consider practical factors such as location, fees, and transport
- Understand pathways to further education or employment from each program
Every child is unique, and thankfully, Perth’s education scene is catching up to that reality. If your teenager is feeling stuck in the traditional classroom, struggling to connect with their learning, or simply marching to the beat of their own drum, you’re not alone – and more importantly, you have options.
From the creative, real-world projects at IDEA Academy to the supportive, recovery-focused environment at Alta-1, these alternative schools aren’t just “different” – they’re often exactly what some kids need to flourish. Maybe your child is academically gifted but bored senseless in a regular classroom. Perhaps they’re dealing with anxiety, learning differences, or just need a smaller, more nurturing environment to rebuild their confidence.
What’s really encouraging is seeing how these programs have grown over the years. It’s like the education world is finally admitting what parents have known all along: kids don’t come in standard sizes, so why should their schooling? When we give young people the chance to learn in ways that actually work for them, everyone wins – the kids, their families, and ultimately our whole community.
The best part? You don’t have to settle for “making do” anymore. There are genuine alternatives out there, run by educators who truly get that some kids just need a different path to reach their destination.
- About the Author
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
