Collier Primary School

Como sits quietly along the Swan River, a short stretch of leafy streets and family homes that feels a world away from the city buzz, yet keeps you connected to it. The suburb has a settled, neighbourly character—think weekend bike rides along the foreshore, local parks with plenty of shade, and a pace that suits families nicely. While specific demographic details aren’t confirmed here, the area’s appeal is clear: it’s close enough to Perth’s amenities to be convenient, but far enough to feel like a proper community. You’ll find a mix of older character homes and newer builds, with the river providing a natural playground for kids who love the outdoors. It’s the kind of place where you’ll quickly learn the best spots for a morning walk or an afternoon picnic, and where the school run feels more like a pleasant stroll than a stressful commute.

Collier Primary School is a well-regarded local option that focuses on creating a supportive, engaging environment for primary-aged children. Teachers here work to know each child as an individual, and the school community tends to be active and involved—parents often volunteer for classroom help or school events. The curriculum follows the Western Australian framework, with a good balance of core subjects and opportunities for creative and physical activities. For families new to the area, the school office is a welcoming first point of contact, and they can provide a tour so you can see the classrooms and meet the staff. It’s a school that feels approachable, where your child will likely settle in quickly and make friends from the surrounding neighbourhood.

For working parents, the after-school hours are often the trickiest part of the day, and here the picture is a little mixed. They may run their own program or partner with a local provider. Many families in Como also rely on a mix of options: some use nearby care services, others arrange for grandparents or neighbours to help out, and some adjust work hours to manage pickups. The school can also point you toward local vacation care programs during school holidays. While you’ll need to make a few calls to lock in your schedule, the community is well-connected, and other parents are usually happy to share what works for them. It’s one of those practical details that takes a little legwork but sorts itself out once you’re settled.

Weeknight dinners in Como are refreshingly straightforward, with a handful of reliable local takeaway spots that save the day when you’re short on time. Johnny’s Quality Fish Bar on Barker Ave is a classic for fish and chips—perfect for a casual Friday treat. If you’re craving Chinese, Hong Kong Cafe & Chinese Restaurant on Canning Hwy offers solid takeaway options, and Hans Wok on Lockhart St is another local favourite for quick and tasty meals. For something familiar and kid-friendly, there’s a Subway on Preston St and a Pizza Hut on Canning Hwy, both handy for those nights when no one can agree on dinner. Beyond takeaway, the suburb has a few small supermarkets for everyday groceries, though you might head a little further for a full weekly shop. The key is keeping a few go-to options in mind—it makes the 5pm scramble much more manageable.

Getting around from Como is straightforward thanks to the Transperth network, which runs trains, buses, and ferries across the Perth metropolitan area. Transperth trains and buses serve the area, and the journey planner will show your nearest stop and the time into the city. Many families find driving convenient too, with good road connections to major arterials. The school can also advise on any in-house support programs. For most families, the daily commute is manageable—whether you’re heading to work in the city or just running kids to activities, the transport links keep things moving smoothly.

Your first move is to contact Collier Primary School directly to arrange a visit—seeing the classrooms and meeting the principal will give you a real feel for whether it’s the right fit. While you’re there, ask about before- and after-school care arrangements, as well as any upcoming enrolment information sessions. Take a drive around Como at different times of day to get a sense of the traffic and the neighbourhood vibe, and maybe stop by one of the local takeaways for dinner to start feeling at home. If you’re new to Australia, the school office and local community are great resources for settling in—don’t hesitate to ask questions. Finally, check the Transperth website to map out your daily commute, and you’ll be well on your way to making Como your new home.