Leading connection through critical thinking
Kaarla Mia, meaning “Fire House” in Noongar, symbolises transformation, courage, and renewal. Just as fire brings warmth, light, and new beginnings, the final years at Kerry Street ignite passion, leadership, and a strong sense of identity in our senior learners. These are the years where students come to know who they are as learners, their strengths, challenges, needs, and goals, and learn how to speak up for themselves with confidence and clarity.
Kaarla Mia is guided by Mim Day, with the dedicated support of MJ Day, Sally Mason, and Peta Har Paz. Together, they cultivate a learning environment where students are known deeply, challenged thoughtfully, and supported holistically as they prepare for the next stage of their educational journey.
Grounded in our values of Connection, Courage, Curiosity, and Compassion, Kaarla Mia supports learners to grow not only academically, but as capable, empathetic, and socially aware young people.
A meaningful step into upper primary
The transition into Kaarla Mia is a powerful moment — a time when students recognise themselves as leaders, role models, and contributors to the life of the school. With increasing independence comes greater responsibility, and students are supported to:
- manage their time and learning
- collaborate with maturity and respect
- lead younger students with care
- problem-solve and think critically
- make decisions that reflect their values
Students step into these responsibilities with guidance, encouragement, and a deep sense of belonging.
A place where leadership, inquiry, and identity come together
Learning in Kaarla Mia is purposeful, challenging, and connected to real-world contexts. Students engage in:
- inquiry projects exploring complex ideas and global issues
- literacy and numeracy workshops that extend critical thinking and academic rigour
- hands-on investigations across science, humanities, and the arts
- deep discussions and debates that strengthen perspective-taking
- creative expression through drama, storytelling, art, and design
- outdoor learning experiences connected to Country, sustainability, and stewardship
- community roles that allow them to mentor and support younger peers
This is a space where students explore who they are, what matters to them, and how they contribute meaningfully to their community.
Growing as capable, confident learners.
By the end of Kaarla Mia, learners are typically:
- independent and self-motivated, managing learning and responsibilities
- confident communicators who express ideas and feelings respectfully
- critical and creative thinkers who question, reflect, and seek deeper understanding
- collaborative contributors engaging meaningfully in group learning
- resilient and adaptable, with strategies for managing challenges
- emotionally intelligent and able to regulate and navigate relationships
- active leaders who support younger students and contribute to the school community
- committed to fairness, inclusion, and standing up for others
- able to apply their learning in real-world contexts
- deeply connected to themselves, others, and the world around them
These qualities form the foundation for a life of engaged, thoughtful citizenship — far beyond the classroom.
Where to next? Transitioning to high school
The move from primary to high school is significant, and many families worry that coming from a small school may make the transition harder. In reality, Kerry Street graduates transition exceptionally well — not because of our size, but because of the skills and confidence students develop here.
Graduates leave knowing who they are, how they learn, and how to advocate for themselves. They are used to speaking up, asking questions, managing relationships, collaborating across ages, and solving real-world problems. These strengths help them adapt quickly and thrive in new settings.
Our graduates move on to a variety of pathways, including:
- independent and private high schools
- public schools, including specialist or extension programs
- scholarship opportunities in areas such as music or the arts
- alternative or flexible education settings
- homeschooling and hybrid learning pathways
What they share is not one specific academic profile — those differ from child to child — but a strong sense of identity, self-awareness, and belonging that guides them into the next chapter with confidence.
“After a profound loss in our family, my daughter struggled to find the motivation to really participate academically and socially at her mainstream school. We decided on a new start, and were fortunate to be offered a place at Kerry Street. Here, I’ve seen her rebuild her confidence and rekindle her love for learning. The care and supportive learning environment allowed my daughter to start to find her feet again. She has accepted a place in the GATE program at John Curtin College of the Arts for high school: a tribute to her and her beautiful growth at Kerry Street. We’ll always be very grateful.”
Dean, 2025 Graduate Parent
A powerful and meaningful final chapter
Kaarla Mia marks the culmination of each child’s Kerry Street journey — a time of deep learning, leadership, and personal growth. Students leave with pride, belonging, and the knowledge that they have something meaningful to offer the world.
They step forward with confidence, connection, and the courage to embrace what comes next.