The Clontarf Foundation began in the year 2000 in Western Australia and has grown significantly over the last 25 years.
As of 2025, it operates 164 academies across Australia, supporting over 12,000 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, including around 1,000 Year 12 students.
Christies Beach High School is proud to be part of this national initiative, which aims to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal men—empowering them to lead purposeful and healthy lives.
At CBHS, the Academy provides a dedicated, welcoming space where students can engage before and after school, and during breaks. Clontarf staff support students through mentoring, lifestyle guidance, and personal development opportunities. Students work toward participating in camps, community events and sporting carnivals alongside peers from other academies.
The program focuses on six key areas: education, leadership, employment, healthy lifestyles, life skills, and sport. Students must remain committed to their schooling and the values of the Foundation to stay involved.
Upon completing the program, graduates receive ongoing support from Employment Officers to help them secure and settle into meaningful jobs.
The Clontarf approach has proven to be highly effective in keeping young Aboriginal men engaged in school, boosting their confidence, and helping them achieve lasting success beyond the classroom.
