Welcome to the Kimberley Education Excellence Program

The Kimberley Education Excellence Program (KEEP) is committed to supporting female Aboriginal students from the Kimberley region by providing accommodation, with educational support from our partner, Belmont City College (Secondary School). The program offers both academic opportunities and a nurturing environment, aiming to empower students to reach their full potential. Through KEEP, we strive to foster personal growth, cultural identity, and the foundation for a brighter future.

 

KEEP Program for Aboriginal Students

The Kimberley Education Excellence Program (KEEP) offers an educational opportunity for around 12 female Aboriginal students from the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Students must be eligible for ABSTUDY, as ABSTUDY contributes to the program costs. KEEP is designed to support students in their academic journey, provide a stable home environment, and help them maintain a strong connection with their cultural heritage. We believe that access to quality education, a supportive home foundation, and meaningful community engagement are key to empowering Aboriginal families, fostering resilience, and creating lasting opportunities for the future.

Family Oriented Program

The Family Oriented Program in Perth provides accommodation in a purpose built home that provides a safe, supportive, and culturally enriching environment for students away from home. Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander House Parents support students by guiding them through daily activities, including cooking, chores, and life skills development, all designed to help prepare them for independent living. The program focuses on social and emotional well-being, education, and cultural identity, helping students feel connected to their new community while fostering a sense of belonging.

School Partnership: Belmont City College

Students in the KEEP program attend Belmont City College, where they are part of the Polly Farmer, Follow the Dream (FTD) Program. This initiative is designed to support Aboriginal students in achieving their educational aspirations and completing Year 12. Belmont City College provides a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed. 

Belmont City College Website: https://www.belmontcc.wa.edu.au/ 

Family Support & Engagement

Family involvement plays a vital role in the success of each student. We encourage ongoing communication between families, House Parents, and the program team. Families are encouraged to contribute financially to support their child’s success in the program.

How to Apply for KEEP

Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a KEEP Scholarship, students must:

  • Be in Years 7, 8, 9 or 10
  • Be committed to completing Year 12
  • Have good school attendance
  • Have family and financial support

Download the 2025 KEEP Handbook

KEEP Application Process

Stage 1: Complete and submit the online application form linked below with all required documents.

Stage 2: Attend a video interview with KEEP staff and the student’s parent/guardian.

Stage 3: The student and parent/guardian will travel to Perth for an in-person interview with KEEP staff and Belmont City College.

Stage 4: Confirmation of acceptance into KEEP Program and Belmont City College and apply for ABSTUDY

KEEP Financial Guidelines

The KEEP Program covers a range of educational and living expenses, including general running costs of the home, school uniforms, stationery, and more.

ABSTUDY
Parents/guardians must apply for ABSTUDY once their child is accepted into the program. ABSTUDY can help with school tuition fees, boarding costs, and travel. Students cannot begin schooling away from home until ABSTUDY is approved.

Family Financial Contributions
While Wunan and ABSTUDY cover many expenses, families are responsible for the following (Where applicable and Year Level dependent):

  • Textbooks
  • Additional school stationery and uniform requirements
  • School laptops
  • Sporting fees and some extra-curricular activity costs

Not Covered by Wunan or ABSTUDY

  • Toiletries
  • Clothing and haircuts
  • Pocket money
  • Mobile phones and credit
  • School camps and day trips

Join Us in Empowering Future Leaders

We look forward to welcoming you to the KEEP program and working together to support your child’s educational and personal growth. If you believe this program is the right fit for you, we encourage you to complete the application process and become part of a community committed to empowering the next generation of leaders.

To apply for the KEEP Program, complete the online application form linked below.

Apply for the KEEP Program

 

Important:

To complete the online application, you must first download and complete the PDF for Part D of the application. This section must be filled out by a Community Organisation to confirm the applicant's Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage, which is an essential requirement for the KEEP program.

Download Part D of the Application

Note - If you’d like to speak to someone about the KEEP program or complete a hardcopy version of the application, please contact keep.wunan@wunan.org.au.