Fairbridge WA works to the philosophy of its founder, Kingsley Fairbridge, who saw a dream in creating a nurturing and positive environment for young people to grow, establishing the national heritage listed town site Fairbridge Village in 1912. Fairbridge provides a unique learning environment for disengaged youth or those at risk of not achieving sustainable employment outcomes. The mission of Fairbridge is to create opportunities for young people to grow and to help bring about positive sustainable change in their lives, their families and their community.

Set on approximately 35 hectares of bush and surrounded by farmland, Fairbridge operates and maintains a national heritage-listed village by providing accommodation in the unique cottages, catering and activities to schools, community groups, and weddings.  

The Fairbridge education model includes 1) an independent CARE (curriculum and re-engagement) College, providing alternative education pathways to school aged children aged 12 – 17, who have been disengaged from mainstream schooling, and 2) A Registered Training Organisation providing vocational education for youth 15 – 24 years in disciplines such as Hospitality, Construction, Surface Extraction Operations, and Conservation and Land Management. Focus is on the engagement of students in both educational facilities through a variety of alternative learning methods, aligned to the needs of individuals.

FUNDING PRIORITIES

Fairbridge House was built in 1921 as the family home for Kinglsey Fairbridge. Unique pise (rammed earth) construction of the ground floor is the only type on the site. After 1924 the house was used as a guest house for many notable visitors including the late Queen Mother whilst she was the Duchess of York.

The house 2 separate pitched rooves, the front being the kitchen and dining, with the second part making up the remaining rooms. Due to its design and age, the roof section between the two creates water to pool and has become severely damaged causing major internal leaks and so requires major repairs.