The region's largest population centre is Cairns.
It includes the local government areas of: Prior to 2015, the Queensland education system consisted of primary schools, which accommodated students from Kindergarten to Year 7 (ages 5–13), and high schools, which accommodate students from Years 8 to 12 (ages 12–18).
[1] State primary schools are Prep to Year 6 unless otherwise indicated.
Additionally to these, special education programs and units are located at many larger primary and high schools.
Preference for enrolment is given to Catholic students from the parish or local area, although non-Catholic students are admitted if room is available.