25 Feb 2026
Sixth consecutive year of enrolment growth shows enduring appeal of Catholic schools
The latest WA census results show a sixth consecutive year of enrolment growth for the state’s Catholic schools, confirming the enduring appeal of Catholic schools to families.
Enrolments increased by 1.5% in the year to February 2026 with more than 84,500 students now enrolled.
The growth was spread across metro and country schools as well as in primary and secondary.
First Nations students make up 4.7% of the students in Catholic schools, the fourth year in a row that proportion has been maintained.
The results add to a sustained period of growth for WA Catholic schools, where enrolments have been boosted by 8.3% in the last five years.
Catholic Education WA’s Executive Director, Annette Morey said:
“It is a source of pride that more families continue to place their trust in our schools to educate their children.
“Catholic schools are committed to providing a modern, affordable, values-based education to those families who seek one.
“We continue to look at ways to improve our schools and curriculum so that we are preparing young people to succeed in the modern workforce and become compassionate members of their communities.”
