The Queensland Department of Education trading as: Education Queensland International (EQI) CRICOS Registration Number 00608A.
Welcome to Kirwan State High School
Kirwan State High School is located in the beautiful regional city of Townsville in North Queensland. The city has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and the area is surrounded by natural beauty - tropical islands, the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests and beaches. Kirwan State High School's international student program has been active since 2006, and the school has hosted hundreds of international students. Each year the school welcomes students from all over the world and offers different programs.
- High School Certificate - Graduate Program - Students complete Year 11 and 12
- Regional studies abroad - short term stays for 3, 6, 9 or 12 months
- Study tours program - 1 to 2 week visits for students
- Student exchange programs - 1 year stays through WEP and Rotary Exchange
The school aims to instil global citizenship, tolerance and inclusion among all staff and students. The international program brings a greater international focus to our curriculum and school culture.
Kirwan State High School offers a broad range of study options that cater for diverse interests and future pathways in a caring and friendly learning environment. Students have the opportunity to participate in extra-curricular activities, including:
- Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays International Camp
- EQI Holiday Programs
- Athletics and Swimming Carnival
- School Musical and School Bands
Use the links provided to make contact with EQI, apply to study, become a Homestay provider or find more information.
International Student Support Team
The following staff are specialised in all aspects of the International Student Program.
Executive Principal 
Ms Heather Murry
Email: hmurr31@eq.edu.au
Telephone: 07 4773 8133
Deputy Principal
Mrs Karen Andersen
Email: kande306@eq.edu.au
Telephone: 07 4773 8122
International Homestay Student Co-ordinator
Ms Nychelle Ford
Email: nford65@eq.edu.au
Telephone: 07 4773 8165
Guidance Counsellor
Mrs Melissa Spilsbury
Email: mspil13@eq.edu.au
Telphone: 07 4773 8171
General enquiries
For all general enquiries please contact us.
International Homestay Experiences
Through their homestay, our International students embark on a number of cultural experiences that are unique to Australia. These experiences offer students the opportunity to experience Australian wildlife and environments.
International students have participated in trips to Billabong Sanctuary to visit native wild life and had the opportunity to go snorkelling on Magnetic Island.
International Homestay Student Testimonials
“The trip to Maggie Island was amazing! However, the most outstanding experience was when we saw a sea turtle and a dolphin. It was great to have the opportunity to go snorkelling to see multiple fish species and to learn more about the history of the island. I love being at this school! We all got a warm welcome and it's nice to be a part of this kind and open minded community. I appreciate the support we got during our stay and the subjects we could choose were amazing."
- Jasmin from Germany
“The trip to Magnetic Island organized by Kirwan High was amazing. I really enjoyed spending time with the other international students, and the snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. I really like Kirwan State High, first of all because of the wide selection in subjects and extra-curricular activities, giving students many opportunity in different fields, like sports, arts, sciences. I also enjoy the time I spend with my friends here, giving me a lot of memories that I will not forget."
- Ginerva from Italy
Curriculum