Frensham Schools

The school’s educational philosophy is rooted in the motto, ‘In Love Serve One Another,’ and is guided by the values of grit, gratitude, and good humour. It promotes a moral purpose to develop individual talents for the common good, emphasising cooperation over competition. The school fosters a culture of inclusivity and personalised learning, where teachers maintain strong relational connections with students to support their academic ambition and personal growth.

The academic offering includes the NESA curriculum, the Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives course, and the NSW Higher School Certificate. Core subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and PDHPE, complemented by electives such as Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Languages, Agriculture, Business Studies, and STEM. The Jamieson Program provides a specific framework for character education, philosophy, and Frensham Studies, while senior students have access to extension courses and specialised pathways.

Frensham offers the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), providing a pathway to university and the attainment of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). The school maintains a strong academic reputation, consistently ranking as a top-performing school outside the Sydney region. Graduates are prepared to excel academically while being nurtured to serve others and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The school employs a personalised approach to learning, with approximately 20 percent of students requiring curriculum support and 20 percent meeting gifted and talented criteria. Teachers work closely with students to develop Personalised Learning Plans that may include online courses, work experience, volunteering, or leadership opportunities. This framework is designed to build resilience and adaptability, ensuring that each student is supported to achieve individual growth.

Frensham Schools welcomes applications for entry into Pre-Kindergarten through Year 6 at the Junior School, and Years 7 through 11 at the Senior School, with Year 7 serving as the primary intake year. The enrolment process involves an initial enquiry, the submission of an application form with supporting documentation, and an enrolment interview with the relevant Head of School. Offers are made at the discretion of the Head of School, and acceptance requires the completion of an enrolment form and payment of a non-refundable fee. Priority consideration is given to siblings of current students and daughters of Frensham Old Girls. Note that applications are not accepted from international students who are not Australian citizens or residents.

The school operates on a four-term academic year. Terms typically run from late January to early April, late April to late June, late July to late September, and mid-October to early December. The calendar includes designated Parent Weekends, which feature specific events such as Open Days, birthday services, and year-level gatherings, as well as Closed Weekends where boarders remain on campus for organised activities. Mid-term breaks are scheduled throughout the year, with specific return times for boarders.

Frensham is situated on a 300-acre rural property in the Southern Highlands, featuring a mix of historic buildings and modern facilities. Key academic spaces include the North and West Wings, the Esther Tuckey Library, and the Schavemaker Centre for Science and Technology, which houses laboratories and collaborative learning spaces. Performing arts and assembly facilities include the Ian Cooper Hall and Clubbe Hall, the latter featuring a Walcker pipe organ and modern audio-visual systems. Sports facilities include the Julie Gillick Sports Complex, which contains the Centenary Pool and a two-court indoor sports hall, alongside outdoor netball and tennis courts, a synthetic turf hockey field, and the 3km Centenary Trail.

Co-curricular opportunities are integrated into the academic program to provide a holistic education. Students participate in a wide range of sports, with over 90 percent of girls representing the school in the IGSA competition, which includes netball, tennis, hockey, and various indoor sports. The school also offers activities such as camps and outdoor education, supported by facilities like the Parker Gymnasium and the Julie Gillick Sports Complex. Character education is delivered through the Jamieson Program, which is woven throughout the school experience.