Our History

A legacy of learning and resilience

At Casuarina Senior College, we believe every student should graduate with a clear sense of direction. Our Careers Advice Centre provides expert, personalisedCasuarina Senior College (CSC) has proudly served Darwin’s northern suburbs since 1973, evolving from a small high school into one of the Northern Territory’s leading senior secondary colleges. Our history reflects a story of growth, innovation, and community spirit, shaped by both local challenges and national achievements. guidance to help students and families make informed decisions about life after school.

The 1970s

Building strong foundations

Throughout the year, students can book appointments for personalised advice on:

  • NTCET requirements and subject choices
  • Entry requirements for university and TAFE
  • Apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities
  • Resume preparation and interview skills
  • Transition planning and post-school applications


Our goal is to ensure every student leaves CSC confident, capable, and career-ready, equipped with the knowledge and support to take their next step.

Two yearbook covers. One with palm trees and

The 1980s

A new direction

During the 1980s, Casuarina High School continued to expand and evolve. The Radio Centre re-opened, and the opening of Dripstone High School helped balance enrolments across Darwin’s northern suburbs.



In 1986, following a review of the Northern Territory’s education system, the school was officially reclassified as a senior secondary college, catering exclusively to Years 11 and 12. With this transition came a new name: Casuarina Secondary College.

Yearbook cover:

The 1990s

Becoming Casuarina Senior College

Casuarina Secondary College continued to specialise in senior secondary education throughout the early 1990s. In 1994, the college adopted its current name, Casuarina Senior College, marking a new chapter in its history. CSC quickly gained a reputation for excellence, offering a mature learning environment where independent learners thrived and achieved outstanding results.

Collage of black and white photos: people, faces, and scenes in diverse settings.

The 2000s

Expanding opportunities

Through the 2000s, CSC remained a senior secondary specialist school, providing strong pathways in both academic and vocational education. In 2006, educational reform across the Northern Territory introduced new stages of schooling, and CSC welcomed Year 10 students for the first time, officially establishing the Years 10–12 phase of senior secondary learning.



At the same time, the minimum school leaving age increased, shaping the college’s direction and deepening its commitment to preparing students for life beyond school.

Book spread; grayscale art on left page, color collaged images on the right, overlaid with translucent sheet.

2010 to Today

Innovation and excellence

From 2010 onwards, Casuarina Senior College continued to lead educational innovation in the Territory.

  • In 2011, CSC launched its Centre for Excellence in Medicine and Health Sciences.
  • By 2013, the college became the host school for the SEDA program.
  • In 2014, CSC established a Sister School relationship with Hadano High School in Japan, beginning regular exchange visits that continue today.


2016 marked a milestone year with the creation of the VET Maritime Academy, complete with a purpose-built vessel servicing shed, and the introduction of Stage 1 language programs for Year 9 students from local middle schools. CSC also became an Independent Public School that same year.


In 2017, the Centre for Excellence expanded to include Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).


By 2018, CSC introduced NTCET@CSC, a tailored pathway giving all Year 10–12 students broader access to both the Northern Territory Certificate of Education and Training (NTCET) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs.

Looking ahead

From its modest beginnings to its role today as a leader in senior secondary education in Darwin, Casuarina Senior College continues to ignite potential and inspire future pathways. Our legacy of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity remains at the heart of everything we do.