Clontarf

Director: Nathan Rose and Ben Thompson

Clontarf at Kooringal High School operates in partnership with the Clontarf Foundation to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men. Through a strong focus on relationships, high expectations and consistent support, the Academy equips students with the skills and confidence to participate meaningfully in society and achieve positive post-school outcomes.

Established in 2000 with a single academy in Western Australia, the Clontarf Foundation has grown significantly over the past two decades. Today, it operates academies across Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, supporting thousands of young men nationwide. This growth reflects the strength of the program’s model and its sustained impact on educational engagement and long-term success.

At Kooringal High School, Clontarf is staffed by dedicated full-time mentors who bring a wealth of professional and life experience. These staff members are committed to building strong, respectful relationships with students, promoting regular school attendance, positive behaviour and academic achievement. Through mentoring, leadership development, sport and personal growth activities, students develop resilience, teamwork and a strong sense of identity and pride.

Clontarf also maintains a strong focus on transition pathways beyond school. Senior students are supported in completing Year 12 and pursuing further education, training or employment. Alumni of the Clontarf program remain an important part of the broader Clontarf network, often providing ongoing guidance and inspiration to current participants.

Through partnership, mentorship and high expectations, Clontarf plays a vital role in fostering aspiration, achievement and long-term success for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men at Kooringal High School.

Events

At Kooringal High School, we take pride in providing students in Clontarf with opportunities to extend their personal growth and development at school, local, regional and state levels.

Through participation in mentoring programs, leadership development initiatives, community engagement activities and employment pathway experiences, students build confidence, resilience and life skills while strengthening their educational engagement and celebrating their achievements.