History

Since opening in 1955, Mount Lawley Senior High School has built a proud reputation for excellence, innovation and community connection. For generations, the school has educated and inspired young people while continually evolving to meet the needs of a changing world.

What began as a new secondary school for Perth’s growing inner northern suburbs has grown into one of Western Australia’s leading public schools, known for academic achievement, specialist programs and a vibrant school culture.

The Early Years

Mount Lawley High School officially opened in 1955, although its permanent Woodsome Street campus was still under construction. The first 400 students were temporarily housed at the former Highgate Infants School on Bulwer Street under the leadership of inaugural Principal Mr James Best.

At the same time, construction commenced on the new school site at Woodsome Street, located on part of the former Scadden Pine Plantation and a rehabilitated landfill area.

In 1956, students moved into the new campus and Mount Lawley quickly established itself as an ambitious and growing school community.

Becoming a Senior High School

In 1960, the school welcomed its first Year 11 cohort, becoming Mount Lawley Senior High School. With enrolments exceeding 1,300 students, it was one of the largest schools in Western Australia.

This decade also saw the introduction of the House System, helping shape school pride, identity and participation, traditions that continue strongly today.

A Specialist School Emerges

In 1971, Mount Lawley Senior High School entered a new era when we were designated a Specialist Language School, laying the foundations for the highly regarded Languages programs that remain a signature strength of the school.

The 1970s also saw the opening of the first library, the creation of Year Councils, the launch of World Week celebrations and the opening of specialist Media and Drama facilities.

Growth, Innovation and Student Support

Through the 1980s and 1990s, the school embraced new technology and expanded student services. Computers were introduced into classrooms and administration, while wellbeing initiatives such as chaplaincy and pastoral care strengthened support for students.

Major building developments included the Design and Technology facilities, a modern administration building and the arrival of internet access.

In 1997, the school proudly adopted the Ex-Prisoner of War Memorial in Kings Park, a partnership that continues as an important act of remembrance and student leadership.

Transforming the Campus

The early 2000s marked one of the most significant redevelopment periods in the school’s history. A major rebuild modernised the campus and introduced contemporary learning environments for a new generation of students.

This included:

  • The commencement of the Specialist Visual and Performing Arts (SVAPA) program
  • Construction of the Middle School
  • Opening of the Mount Lawley Sports and Fitness Centre
  • Significant upgrades to teaching and student facilities

A Contemporary School for the Future

As Western Australia transitioned Year 7 students into secondary school, Mount Lawley continued to expand and evolve.

Recent milestones include:

  • Reintroduction of the House System in a modern format
  • Opening of the two-storey Year 7 Building in 2015
  • Opening of the STEM Centre in 2020
  • A new two-storey, 20-classroom Senior School building opened in 2024
  • Continued enrolment growth and investment in student opportunities
  • Celebration of the school’s 70th Anniversary in 2025

A Proud Legacy

From our beginnings in temporary classrooms to its place today as one of Western Australia’s premier public schools, Mount Lawley Senior High School has always looked forward while honouring our traditions.

Our story is one of resilience, excellence and innovation, shaped by generations of students, staff, families and community members who have made Mount Lawley what it is today.

Acknowledgement of Country

Mount Lawley Senior High School acknowledges the Whadjuk (Whadjak) People of the Nyoongar Nation as the Traditional Custodians of this land. We pay our respects to their Elders, both past and present, and to their continuing connection to Noongar Boodja (Noongar Country).

Address

65 Woodsome Street
Mount Lawley
Western Australia 6050

Enquiries

Main Administration

+61 (8) 9265 1500 Email Main Administration

Alumni

Email Alumni

Sub-schools

Middle School (Years 7-8)

+61 (8) 9265 1573 Email Middle School

Upper School (Years 9-10)

+61 (8) 9265 1543 Email Upper School

Senior School (Years 11-12)

+61 (8) 9265 1535 Email Senior School

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