Enrol at school

In Western Australia, children can start their education in Kindergarten, however compulsory schooling starts the following year in Pre-primary.

Who needs to enrol?

You need to apply to enrol your children at school for 2023 if they are:

• starting Kindergarten – 4 years old by 30 June 2023
• starting Pre-primary, the first year of compulsory school – 5 years old by 30 June 2023
• starting Year 7, the first year of secondary school
• changing schools.

Find out how to enrol.

You can find out what year your children need to start school with our school-age calculator below.

All children of compulsory school age must be enrolled at school and attend every day – this is the law. All children must attend school up until they are 16 years old. Sixteen and 17-year-olds must be enrolled at school or a training organisation, be employed or be in a combination of school/training/employment.

Every child from Pre-primary to Year 12 is guaranteed a place at their local public school. Places in Kindergarten may be limited at your local school, so we encourage you to apply now. Contact your local public school to apply to enrol.

Learn more about non-government schools in Western Australia.

Children with special educational needs

As a parent you want to choose the school that best suits your child, your family and your individual circumstances. The best school for your child may be your local school, an education support school, an education support centre, or a primary or secondary school with specialist facilities and programs for students with disability.

Contact your local school or education regional office if your child has special educational needs, or you would like to discuss the academic or personal needs of your child prior to enrolment.