Secondary School Reform Information
Dear Nightcliff Families,
We’re excited to let you know that the Northern Territory Government has approved the final plan for a new secondary school system in Darwin, Palmerston, and Alice Springs. These changes are designed to give students a smoother journey from Year 7 to Year 12, and better preparation for life after school.
The design reflects over 1,100 community survey responses and was widely consulted on throughout term 1 and 2.
Darwin
• Four high schools (Years 7–12): Dripstone, Nightcliff, Sanderson, and the combined Darwin Middle and High Schools
• A new specialist college for trades, industry and technical skills (Years 10–12) at the current Sanderson Middle School site (opening over the next 4 years)
• A higher education-focused college (Years 10–12) at Casuarina Senior College
Palmerston
• Two high schools (Years 7–12) at the existing Palmerston College sites in Driver and Rosebery
Alice Springs
• One full high school (Years 7–12) at the Centralian Middle School site
• A connected college for trades, industry and flexible learning (Years 10–12) at the Centralian Senior College site (opening over the next 4 years)
The transition to the new, comprehensive secondary education system will be gradual, sequenced and strategically managed to ensure a smooth rollout and minimise disruption to current education service delivery.
Darwin and Palmerston
will begin transitioning to the new system in January 2026. This means from 2026, your child will be able to complete years 7-12 at one school, removing transition points and building stronger relationships with teachers and staff.
Every student in Darwin, Palmerston and Alice Springs will continue to have access to excellent public secondary education and a variety of learning pathways—no matter where they live. We’re committed to giving families flexibility and choice.
The enrolment areas for Dripstone, Nightcliff, Sanderson, and the combined Darwin Middle and High Schools have not changed. To find out which school your child can attend, check the priority enrolment policy here: School's priority enrolment area | Department of Education and Training
If you’re thinking about enrolling your child in a school outside your local area, first contact your local school principal. These requests are reviewed individually, with priority given to students living in the local enrolment zone.
For more details about enrolment dates and steps, contact your local school or follow their social media pages.
Further information on the finalised design of secondary, including school-specific information, FAQs, and a transition timeline, are available on the Department of Education and Training website.
Yours sincerely,
Ranae Graham
