Schools in Mareeba
Mareeba offers a range of educational options for families including state, Catholic, and independent schools. From early childhood through to Year 12, the town provides quality education in a supportive regional community setting.
Secondary Schools
Mareeba State High School
State (Years 7-12)~800 students
The main public secondary school serving Mareeba and surrounding communities. Offers a broad curriculum including academic, vocational, and trade pathways. Strong agricultural and rural skills programs reflecting the community's farming heritage. Facilities include science labs, trade workshops, sports fields, and a performing arts centre. The school has an active sports program and regularly competes in regional competitions.
St Stephen's Catholic College
Catholic (Years 7-12)~500 students
Catholic secondary college operated by the Diocese of Cairns. Offers a comprehensive curriculum with strong pastoral care programs. Known for its community service focus, music program, and academic results. Modern facilities including science labs, IT suites, sports courts, and chapel. Accepts students of all faiths.
Primary Schools
Mareeba State School
State (Prep-6)Large state primary school in the centre of town. Diverse student body reflecting Mareeba's multicultural community. Strong literacy and numeracy programs with specialist teaching in the arts, PE, and LOTE.
St Thomas's School
Catholic (Prep-6)Catholic primary school with a focus on faith, learning, and community. Small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. Modern classrooms and playground facilities.
Mareeba Christian College
Independent (Prep-6)Independent Christian school offering a values-based education. Small school environment with individual attention. Strong parent community involvement.
Kuranda District State College
State (Prep-12)Combined school in nearby Kuranda (30 min). Prep through Year 12 on one campus. Strong connection to the local Djabugay and Yirrganydji communities. Rainforest setting.
Early Childhood & Childcare
Mareeba has several childcare centres and kindergartens catering to children from 6 weeks through to school age. Long day care, family day care, and sessional kindergarten programs are available. Places can be in demand, so enrolling early is recommended for families relocating to the area.
Mareeba Community Kindergarten
Community-run kindergarten offering the approved Kindergarten program for children aged 3.5-5 years. Focus on play-based learning.
Long Day Care Centres
Multiple childcare centres offering care for children 6 weeks to school age. Most centres offer the kindergarten program within their service.
School Transport
School bus services operate throughout Mareeba Shire, connecting rural and remote students with schools in Mareeba town. The Queensland Government's School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS) provides free or subsidised bus transport for eligible students who live more than 3.2km from their nearest state school. Private school students may also be eligible for transport assistance. Contact your school directly for bus route information and registration.
For Families Moving to Mareeba
If you're relocating to Mareeba with school-age children, contact schools directly to discuss enrolment. State schools accept all students within their catchment area. Catholic and independent schools may have waitlists, so enquire early. Most schools offer orientation days or tours for prospective families.
Enrolment Tips
- • State school enrolments: contact the school or visit Education Queensland online
- • Catholic school enrolments: contact the school office directly
- • Bring previous school reports, immunisation records, and proof of address
- • School uniforms are required at all Mareeba schools - available from school shops
- • NAPLAN results are available for all schools through the My School website