Parramatta High School is a partially selective high school with a long and respected tradition for academic achievement. Founded in 1913, it was the first co-educational school established in the Sydney metropolitan area. In 2010, two selective classes will commence in Year 7. The school is noted for its success in Mathematics and Science. In the 2008 HSC we achieved a First in the State for Mathematics Extension 1 and Second in the State for Mathematics Extension 2. The school also has a fine record of achievement in the Asian Languages. There is a strong emphasis on academic achievement, remaining open to all and maintaining a safe, supportive culture.
Facilities: The school is located on the corner of the Great Western Highway and Pitt Street adjacent to Parramatta Park; the school enjoys many of the park’s facilities. All students can access four modern computer rooms and a library for use across a range of subjects.
Electives Years 7 to 10: The school provides access to a balanced and broad curriculum for the School Certificate offering English, Mathematics, History, Geography, Science, PD/Health/PE, Languages (French and Indonesian), Design and Technology, Visual Arts, Commerce, Food Technology, Textiles and Design, Industrial Technology, Graphics Technology, Music, Information Software & Technology, Drama and Sport.
Electives Years 11 and 12: English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Senior Science, Modern and Ancient History, French, Indonesian, Chinese Continuers, Economics, Business Studies, Legal Studies, Information Processes and Technology, Software Design and Development, Music, Visual Arts, Geography, PD/Health/PE, Design and Technology, Community and Family Studies, Society and Culture, Economics, Food Technology, Textiles and Design and Studies of Religion. There are Vocational Industry Frameworks courses in Hospitality, Information Technology, and Retail. Sport: Years 7 and 8 have integrated sport. Years 9 to 11 participate in Prospect Zone grade sport or school-based social sport.
Extracurricular activities: Public speaking, debating, string ensemble, SRC, drama, vocal groups, concert band, instrumental tuition, science, mathematics and environment club including school and park beautification, community care course, and charity work.
Welfare and personal development: The school has a strong supportive student welfare and development policy, SRC, peer support program, support teacher for learning difficulties, and a student counsellor. Work experience, School-to-Work programs and careers guidance are also available. Uniform is compulsory.
Notable ex-students: Richie Benaud (Australian Test cricketer), Donald Horne (author), Assoc. Professor Peter Procopis (executive director Children’s Hospital Westmead), Professor John Croucher (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Management, Macquarie University), Professor Bill Lovegrove (Vice Chancellor, University of Southern Queensland, Rod Taylor (actor), Reverend Ted Noffs, Phil Chapman (NASA rocket designer).