Frederick Irwin Anglican School is expanding learning pathways for senior students, moving beyond a long-standing perception that the school primarily catered to ATAR-focused study.
The shift forms part of the School’s strategic focus on ensuring students have access to a wider range of post-school options, including vocational training and alternative university entry pathways.
Over the past three years, teaching staff have been instrumental in reshaping this narrative and expanding meaningful learning pathways for every student.
Principal Mrs Tracey Gray said, ‘I am delighted to see the broad range of options for students leading to success for all.’
To ensure each learner’s potential is maximised, the School has broadened their senior‑school offerings, improved the language surrounding pathways, and placed genuine emphasis on celebrating success across all routes. One significant development has been the evolution of the Curtin UniReady program. Previously, UniReady was delivered via video link through AngliSchools and completed alongside a full WACE load. In 2025, the School partnered directly with Curtin University and integrated UniReady into the timetable as two Year 12 subjects taught by Frederick Irwin teachers.
The change has led to strong growth in student participation. Enrolments increased from eight students in 2024 to 25 in 2025, with completion rates rising from 32.5 per cent to 100 per cent. In 2026, 48 students have chosen the program.
UniReady provides a direct pathway into Curtin University, Edith Cowan University and Murdoch University. As the program has grown, the School has seen increased enrolments in General WACE courses and a corresponding decline in some ATAR classes.
Despite this shift, ATAR outcomes have also improved, with more students gaining university entry through both ATAR and UniReady pathways.
The School has also changed the way it talks about senior pathways, moving away from the traditional “ATAR” and “non-ATAR” language. Instead, programs are described as ATAR, Curtin UniReady, or Enterprise pathways, which include combinations of General courses, VET and INSTEP placements.
Over three years, ATAR participation has shifted from 68 per cent in 2023 to a projected 31 per cent in 2026. Even so, around 64 per cent of students are expected to access direct university entry through a mix of ATAR and UniReady pathways.
Many students are now combining UniReady with one ATAR subject and report better workload balance and preparation for university, with several students already receiving early offers from Curtin and Murdoch universities.
