Waratah is a small picturesque rural yet isolated town of approximately 350 people, 60km west of Burnie, North West Tasmania. Employment is limited to mining or by local contractors. The school was established in 1878 and serves the Waratah community. Waratah Primary School celebrated its 130th birthday this year. Over the years the number of students has varied according to the town's population affected by the availability of mining jobs. Employment in the area is presently generated by T-change Tasmania for a sea change or tree change. Over the last 5 years the number of students attending the school has declined. Years 5 and 6 students now attend Ridgley Primary school. The school continues to provide for Kindergarten to Year 4. We are committed to the achievement of academic excellence and the cultivation of individual strengths and talents enabling the total development of children. Planning is underway to strengthen the link between Waratah and Ridgley Primary School. This link helps with access to specialist lessons as well as support for teaching and support staff. Secondary students travel 60km to high schools in Burnie. Waratah Primary School closed in August 2009.