Primary school students from 13 Education Support schools across Perth came together on Friday 11 September for the 2026 Starkick Education Support Primary Schools Carnival – a day filled with football, fun, friendship and plenty of smiles.

Around 210 students, supported by 150 teachers, education assistants and support staff, took part in the annual carnival, giving students of all abilities the opportunity to represent their school, meet new people and enjoy playing footy.

For WAAAFA Inclusion Specialist Rob Geersen, opportunity is exactly what this carnival is about.

“This day is about providing students from Education Support settings with the same opportunities that other students experience and may sometimes take for granted,” Geersen said.

“That simple chance to meet new friends, represent your school and have fun playing footy, that’s what this event is all about.”

And for some students, the opportunity to attend the carnival means a lot.

“The students were so excited to come back. As soon as I showed them photos of last year's carnival, they began smiling and laughing,” said Courtney from Castlereagh School.

“Our students don't often get out of the school. I really noticed improvement in students' abilities to follow and track the ball, move as a team across the field and kick the ball.”

More than just the footy

While football was at the heart of the carnival, there was plenty happening off the field too, with music, face painting, temporary tattoos and other activities adding to the festival atmosphere.

The Rapid Relief Team generously donated their time and provided a sausage sizzle lunch for everyone attending, while students from SEDA Group played a major role in helping plan, fund and deliver activities throughout the day.

SEDA student Ava Stagg said being involved in planning the carnival had challenged her own skills, but seeing it all come together made it worthwhile.

“Seeing all the smiles on the students' faces made all the planning worth it.”

That contribution didn't go unnoticed by the schools either, with Angus from Wirrabirra Education Support Centre describing the students who supported their teams on the day as “awesome” and commending their willingness to engage with and support the students.

Celebrating achievement – Starkick style

Every school left the carnival with a participation trophy, recognising that the day is ultimately about getting involved and having a go.

Malibu School was awarded the 2026 Starkick Values Shield for the way its students demonstrated the Starkick values of Teamwork, Respect, Generosity, Care and Safety throughout the day.

Malibu School Representatives receive the Values Shield 

There was also a special moment for Felicity from Roseworth Education Support Centre, who was announced as the winner of the statewide Starkick Design a Jumper competition. Felicity's winning design will now be transformed into a full set of football jumpers for her school to keep.

Felicity from Roseworth School recognised for her winning Jumper design

For the schools, though, perhaps the best measure of the carnival's success was how much their students enjoyed simply being there.

“We love being part of the day,” said Tanya from Avonvale Education Support Centre. “I think my students needed the hour-and-a-half rest home, as they were buggered from playing all day!”

And Ben from Rockingham Beach Education Support Centre summed it up simply:

“All of them enjoyed the extra activities… Well done to all involved. We are all looking forward to participating again next year!”