Wilcannia Central School

Years Pre K 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Phone: (08) 8091 5801
Email: wilcannia-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Address: Barrier Hwy, Wilcannia NSW 2836
Website: https://wilcannia-c.schools.nsw.gov.au

wilcanniacentralschool

Quick facts

Established: 1 March 1869
Category: Central/Community School
Gender: Co-ed
Subjects: Comprehensive
Local government area: Central Darling
State electorate: Barwon
Federal electorate: Parkes

About the school

Wilcannia Central School is a comprehensive educational institution located in western NSW, along the Darling River. With a close-knit community of approximately 90 students, of which 95% are Aboriginal, the school emphasises strong community engagement and leadership. As a Connected Communities school, it fosters partnerships with Aboriginal leaders, local families, and external agencies to create tailored learning pathways from preschool to Year 12.

Educational Approach

The school aims to cultivate a positive educational environment that respects and honours Aboriginal culture. Students in secondary school are encouraged to explore vocational pathways through work experience, traineeships, and apprenticeships, helping them understand their future opportunities. Collaboration with community elders enriches the learning experience, particularly in the teaching of Barkindji language and culture, which is integral to the students' education.

Innovative Programs

Wilcannia Central School develops innovative curricula and employs specialized teaching practices to cater to the individual needs of each student. The small school size allows for a focus on personalised attention, ensuring that every child is known, valued, and cared for as an individual. The school implements comprehensive programs that enhance student engagement and improve literacy and numeracy outcomes, further supporting the children’s health and wellbeing.

Community Involvement

The school actively involves the community at all stages of a child's education, fostering a supportive network that promotes leadership and growth. Every facet of the school promotes an inclusive atmosphere, aiming to prepare students to be confident, compassionate leaders in their communities.

Mission

We help every student to learn, grow and succeed. Join our friendly and inclusive school community today!

Location & Catchment Area

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Wilcannia Central School

Catchment zones

Nearby or Connected Schools

Profile (2025)

Total enrolments: 65 (35 girls, 30 boys)
Enrolments (FTE) What does this mean?: 65
ICSEA What does this mean?: 673 (percentile 1)
SEA quarters What does this mean?: 81% / 11% / 5% / 3%
FOEI What does this mean?: 211
Indigenous students: 89%
LBOTE What does this mean?: 59%
Teaching staff (FTE) What does this mean?: 15.5
Non-teaching staff (FTE) What does this mean?: 7.9

Enrolments by grade (2025)

Grade	Headcount
Kindergarten	10
Year 1	2
Year 2	4
Year 3	4
Year 4	7
Year 5	5
Year 6	6
Year 7	7
Year 8	4
Year 9	5
Year 10	5
Year 11	4
Year 12	2
Total	65

Year by year

Attendance data for 2020 is unavailable — NSW schools were disrupted by COVID-19 and the Department of Education did not publish figures for that year.

Year	Enrolments	Girls	Boys	Attendance %	ICSEA	Teaching staff (FTE)
2025	65	35	30	-	673	15.5
2024	62	36	26	47	630	17.7
2023	68	37	31	48.7	637	19.1
2022	74	44	30	50.6	640	17.4
2021	78	48	30	51.4	619	15.1
2020	59	34	25	-	620	14.9
2019	62	34	28	66.6	647	15.3
2018	66	39	27	59.4	660	15.3
2017	66	39	27	62.7	620	13.4
2016	73	41	32	66.2	685	14.6
2015	72	41	31	69.7	617	15.5
2014	83	48	35	72.9	613	13
2013	85	41	44	64	633	15.5
2012	93	43	50	61.8	661	17.1
2011	120	64	56	64.5	592	18.4
2010	109	57	52	-	595	16.2
2009	101	48	53	-	548	15.5
2008	108	55	53	-	548	14.9

Attendance data for 2020 is unavailable — NSW schools were disrupted by COVID-19 and the Department of Education did not publish figures for that year.