Curriculum and Studies

Students are exposed to a broad range of core subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE). The curriculum also includes specialist programs such as the Jamieson Program, which encompasses Frensham Studies, Character Education, and Philosophy, ensuring a well-rounded education.

In addition to the core subjects, Frensham provides a wide selection of electives, allowing students to explore their interests and talents in areas such as Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Technology, and Languages like French and Latin.

Senior students have access to more specialised options, including Agriculture, Business Studies, Design & Technology, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), with opportunities for extension courses in subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science.

Frensham’s Senior Studies Program supports students in preparing for their futures, with a focus on developing leadership skills, critical thinking, and a strong sense of global perspective. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.

Frensham offers students the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), with a broad range of subjects available. Completion of the HSC enables entry to university, and students are eligible for an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) based on the results earned through internal assessments and their final examinations.

Frensham continues to demonstrate academic excellence through its approach to teaching and learning, and for 2024 maintained its position as one of the top-performing schools outside the Sydney region, and placed 50th in the Sydney Morning Herald Ranking. As a non-selective school this achievement reflects the effort and dedication of our students and teaching staff.

Frensham offers the globally recognised Cambridge IGCSE, the world’s most popular international curriculum for 14 to 16-year-olds, providing students with an excellent foundation for further education.

Designed to foster a learner-centred, enquiry-based approach, the Cambridge IGCSE develops skills in creative thinking, problem-solving, and intellectual enquiry. This internationally recognised qualification is valued by universities and employers worldwide, making it an essential step for students seeking to progress to higher education.

In Year 9, students broaden their perspectives by completing the Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives course, which encourages reflection and inquiry into key global issues from personal, local, national, and international viewpoints. In Year 10, students take on a range of leadership opportunities and choose between the Cambridge IGCSE History or Geography courses, further building on their academic and personal development.

We are unwavering in our commitment to providing a learning structure for each student, to build resilience and adaptability.

Student reflection statements in reports often reveal that the most rewarding experiences come from overcoming difficulties rather than routine successes, even for the highest-achieving students. With 20% of students meeting Gifted and Talented criteria and 20% requiring curriculum support, we see success as being a blend of individual growth and the appropriate navigation of challenges.

This approach underpins our commitment to providing a learning structure for each student, to build resilience and adaptability. Students work closely with their teachers to develop Personalised Learning Plans tailored to their interests and goals, and can include online courses, work experience, volunteering or leadership opportunities.

This extensive framework guides students in developing persistence and a real sense of accomplishment.