Somerly Primary School

Clarkson is a genuinely family-oriented suburb, and you’ll feel it the moment you drive through. The streets are lined with standalone houses—89% of them, in fact—and the median age of 34 means you’re surrounded by other young families and working professionals. The neighbourhood has a strong, friendly spirit, with parks and recreational areas woven throughout, making it easy to meet neighbours at the local playground or on an evening walk. It’s a middle-income area that feels solid and welcoming, not flashy but comfortable. If you’re after a place where kids can ride bikes and you can actually know your street, Clarkson delivers that classic Australian suburban feel without the pretence. The community genuinely looks out for each other, which is a huge relief when you’re settling into a new chapter.

Somerly Primary School is the kind of school that feels like an extension of the neighbourhood—warm, engaged, and full of life. Beyond the core curriculum, your child can join the school Choir, which is a lovely way to build confidence and friendships, or take part in Gymbaroo, a program that supports physical development and coordination in younger kids. The school also runs a Containers for Change recycling initiative, so your children will learn about sustainability hands-on, collecting and returning containers as part of their everyday school life. It’s these little extras that show the school cares about more than just test scores—they’re building responsible, well-rounded kids. The staff are approachable, and the school community is active, so you’ll quickly find your footing as a parent here.

If you’re juggling work and school pickups, Somerly Primary has you covered with TheirCare running Outside School Hours Care right on site. Before School Care opens at 6:30am and runs until 8:40am, so you can drop the kids off early and still make your commute. After School Care picks up from 2:45pm and runs until 6:00pm, giving you a solid window to finish work. On pupil-free days and school holidays, they run full-day programs from 6:30am to 6:00pm, which is a lifesaver during the long summer break. The Child Care Subsidy applies, so you’re not paying full freight. It’s a seamless setup—your kids stay in a familiar environment with their friends, and you don’t have to stress about the 3pm scramble. The school office can confirm current before- and after-school care arrangements if you need specifics.

After a long day, you don’t want to think too hard about dinner, and Clarkson has some solid, family-friendly options for takeaway or delivery. Cinnamon Spice Indian Restaurant on Penacola Terrace is a great pick for a rich, comforting curry, while Daily Bites Cafe and Curry on Ainsbury Parade offers another Indian option if you want to mix it up. For the kids (or the kid in you), Eagle Boys Pizza at Unit 4, 1868-1874 Marmion Ave does the job for a classic pizza night. These aren’t fancy spots, but they’re reliable and local—exactly what you need on a Tuesday when everyone’s tired. For groceries, you’ll find the usual big supermarkets nearby, and the suburb’s family vibe means there are plenty of quick, casual spots to grab a meal without dragging the kids somewhere formal.

As a public primary school, Somerly Primary doesn’t charge tuition fees beyond the standard voluntary contributions, so your main cost consideration is the commute. Clarkson is well-connected by Transperth trains and buses, and Clarkson Station sits on the Yanchep line. A typical weekday train ride from Clarkson Station to Perth Underground takes around 45 minutes, which is manageable if you work in the city. Driving is also an option, but the train lets you avoid parking hassles and gives you time to read or catch up on emails. The station is a straightforward trip from the school, so you can drop the kids off, head to the platform, and be in the city before you know it. For a suburb this family-focused, the commute is a fair trade-off for the space and community you get.

Your first move is to book a tour of Somerly Primary School—seeing the classrooms and meeting the teachers will tell you more than any brochure. While you’re there, ask about the Choir and Gymbaroo programs to see if they’re a good fit for your child. Next, drive around Clarkson on a weekend to get a feel for the parks and streets; you’ll quickly see why families love it here. Transperth trains and buses serve the area, and the journey planner will show your nearest stop and the time into the city. Finally, check the TheirCare enrolment forms early—before and after school care spots can fill up, especially for the holiday programs. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll be settled in no time.