Stage 1 will consist of Kindergarten, Pre-Primary and other primary year levels. Based on expressions of interest received, Stage 1 will either only include junior primary classes (kindergarten to year 3) or may extend to include all primary year classes (kindergarten to year 6).

There are plans already in place to expand from kindergarten to year 12 at both new schools within the next few years.

The college envisages Stage 1 will ease enrolment pressure at its existing primary schools in Dianella, Thornlie, and Kewdale which are operating at full capacity with extensive waiting lists.

The number of students at the College’s current Perth campuses has already exceeded 3,600. The new college locations will provide families with state-of-the-art schools closer to home which will significantly reduce the travelling time of students.

Construction of Stage 1 will begin in 2022, with the Primary School buildings completed for the start of the 2023 school year.

Education and Training Minister Hon Sue Ellery has already approved advanced determination for both schools in Forrestdale and Henley Brook.

“Our Muslim community is growing and the college understands the need for our community to have access to Islamic schools in their local areas, with well-established governance and leadership systems in place,” Khan said.

“These new AIC schools will not only reduce enrolment pressure at our existing Perth campuses but will also provide families with additional Islamic educational facilities closer to home.”

The Executive Principal and College Board have been carefully planning to respond to community requirements and anticipated continued Muslim population growth, which will result in increased demand for Islamic schooling opportunities.