The amalgamation of a number of schools into the singular Western Cape College construct is a response to The Department of Education’s commitment to improve educational outcomes for all students on the Western Cape. The Western Cape College officially opened on January 1, 2002. This P-12 educational facility presently aligns the campuses of Mapoon Primary, Weipa Primary and Weipa Secondary. Further, in 2012, Western Cape College, in partnership with the Indigenous Land Corporation, opened a residential facility located in Weipa.
The Western Cape College serves a diverse community with widely spread social, academic and economic experiences. Our diversity is not, however, our defining feature. Western Cape College is committed to maximising life choice for all students by maximising educational outcomes, standards of behaviour, attention and commitment to formal learning and its structure are emphasised across all campuses. We judge our success by the retention of students to Year twelve and their choices in regard to further education or employment. This outcome is dependent upon a safe, supportive learning environment so the principles of equity and social justice are applied.
Success is also dependent upon consistent rigour so every year level and every student is critical. Data is collected on all students to track development through case management. The college principal manages the strategic issues for the whole college (K-12) and works with a range of community organisations and Department of Education services to improve pathways, provide facilities, support and options for our young people.
A college executive team oversees the functioning of the college, with primary and secondary schooling across the campuses supervised by two Associate Principals who are accountable for the day to day operations.