Tradition - Vision - Excellence

Launceston College has evolved from its humble beginnings as Launceston State High School which opened in 1913. Today, Launceston College stretches over two blocks and accommodates over 1400 Year 11 and 12 students.

The original building that still exists, reminds us of our rich history. Offering over 120 subjects, Launceston College offers a comprehensive program which prepares students for the work place or further study at TAFE or university.

At Launceston College, we pride ourselves on providing the academic, vocational, cultural and social environment that fosters high level outcomes. Our students consistently achieve outstanding outcomes in ATAR results, nationally accredited VET courses and Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) results.

Students have access to first class facilities and a comprehensive range of educational programs which include:

  • Academic subjects which lead to university study and accreditation
  • Foundation subjects
  • Vocational Education and Training (Certificate I, II and III courses) for industry pathways
  • Study support and tutorial programs
  • Career and Life Planning
  • GenR8R
  • Launceston Virtual College
  • Launceston College Advanced Academic Program (LCAAP)
  • College Production, Dance Fever and College Symphonic Band
  • Sporting Academies – including Rowing, Mountain Biking, Cricket and AFL
  • International Student Program
  • STEAM NGN & Project Space
  • “The Cell” shopfront
  • Extracurricular activities such as Chess Club, Basketball, Writers Club, Netball, SRC and Debating
  • Additional Courses such as Responsible Serving of Alcohol (RSA) and Barista Certificate, First Aid and Road Safety
  • Community Playgroup

The historical site upon which LC sits is an important one for not only Launceston, but the entire state of Tasmania. The Launceston Gaol was originally on the site on which Launceston College now stands and was established prior to 1823. This is a photograph of the prison wall, which is now the Performing Arts Area of Launceston College.​

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In 1914 the prison was demolished and a school that later became Launceston College was established on this site.​ LC had its early beginnings in 1915 and was developed as Launceston High School for Grade 7-10 - it was at that time one of only two high schools in Tasmania.​

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In 1967 the high school became a Matriculation College, with a responsibility for Years 11 and 12 only.  It has maintained that role across the ensuing years.

In 2006, the Tasmanian Government developed a new qualification to ensure and gauge student learning. This qualification is called the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) – a qualification that requires students to gain points in subjects of varying difficulty and in specific areas related to Literacy, Numeracy and ICT.

Launceston College has developed a reputation as a very successful school, with many of our alumni graduating from this college and going on to achieve wonderful things. It has maintained this reputation over many years of excellence in teaching and learning outcomes for our amazing students.

In 2016-17, Launceston College made upgrades to our Performing Arts area, meaning that some careful archaeological work was required around the area where the condemned cells originally stood. This video tells the tale of this careful and historically sensitive development: