Our History

Established in 1981 and located in Coolgardie, the birthplace of the great gold rush a century earlier, CAPS opened under the initiative of a group of Aboriginal people and parents, many who had been raised in the Goldfields on the Mount Margaret Mission. After such a positive experience of their own schooling, and with an unwavering commitment, CAPS’ founding members have created a nurturing environment to foster the spiritual and educational growth of their students. Their aim was simple to offer their children the same high academic standards they had received as students. It’s a shocking fact that at the time CAPS was formed, Aboriginal students weren’t yet allowed to study beyond Year Ten. Today many CAPS students are tertiary educated with all CAPS students encouraged to find their individual talents and strengths.