On the 5th February 1912, six State High Schools opened in Queensland : Bundaberg; Gympie; Mackay; Mount Morgan ; Warwick ; and Charters Towers referred to fondly as ''The World'' . 

Charters Towers was the epicentre of Australian commerce at the turn of the century. Its booming economy fuelled by the surrounding Gold Fields helped establish the first Stock Exchange in Australia on Mosman Street. 

The original location of the High School is in fact the present site of the ACTSS Alternative Program Centre at Central State School . On Opening Day the appointed Principal, Mr J.G. Bayley, opened the school’s doors and welcomed 157 students. 

From these humble beginnings, the school’s commitment to care and nurture the individual in a supportive environment began.  In 1929, full to capacity with enrolments, the High School moved to its present site on Towers Street. 

Throughout the decades, Principals contributed to the school’s development maintaining the unique heritage buildings, complementing them with state of the art facilities. 

The air-conditioned Resource Centre (Library) was opened in 1988 along with significant improvements being made to the grounds and ovals. The Manual Arts/Commerce and Computer Facilities were ready for use at the commencement of 1990 and continue to be updated in-line with technological advancements and innovations. During the 1990s the School Community Hall, the new Science Laboratories and Catering Block expanded the opportunities made available to the school community.

The school''s reputation for musical excellence was first ignited during the 1930s when the school choir, conducted by Mr W.F. Friemann, competed in the All Queensland Schools’ Choral Contest. In 1952, students wrote the School Song with Mr Friemann''s guidance which led to its first performance at the Speech Night of 1953. The strong music tradition has continued with the performance of the School Song a component of all offical school events including the annual Speech Night. The success of our concert band and instrumental music program continues to flourish earning second place in the 2006 Fanfare competition. In fact, in 1998 and 2000, the concert band won the Townsville District Fanfare contests, travelling to Brisbane to compete in the State Finals.