Back Plains State School began as a result of a meeting that was held on the 11 August, 1877. In 1878, 10 acres was purchased and a tender put out for the building of the school and a residence. Mr Meise's tender of £403 was accepted, of which £88.5.0 was paid by the local families. The school was known as the 'Clifton Homestead Area School' the other nearest school was at the Clifton Coal Pits. In 1918 its name was changed to Back Plains. A new building was built in 1956 (now the Administration and Library) and a new residence was built in 1961.
The school currently has 25 students across Prep to Grade Six. Students are split into two different classes.
The staff are committed to the education of all students and have wide range of experience in a variety of contexts to make the students experiences, challenging and rewarding.