In 1977, Essendon Grammar (1872) amalgamated with Penleigh Ladies College (1871). Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School aims to foster a love and enthusiasm for learning. An academic tradition, complemented by creative, sports and outdoor education programs, fosters intellectual and social development.
Facilities: Libraries, assembly halls, sports centre, gymnasium, computer and language laboratories, swimming pool, drama theatre and music auditorium. Moonee Ponds and Essendon Campuses include landscaped grounds with historic buildings. Keilor East Campus features playing fields in a bushland setting.
Curriculum: A strong academic curriculum includes foreign language study (Chinese from Prep, French, German and Indonesian from Year 7 and Latin from Year 9). A broad range of VCE units is offered. Music and Religion are compulsory during the lower secondary years.
Sport: Inter-school sport is offered to boys and girls at all levels in a wide range of sports.
Extra-curricular activities: Include school orchestra, concert band, big band, choir, ensembles (Chinese, guitar, synthesiser and percussion), other performance groups at junior levels, private tuition in theory, instrument, Suzuki and singing. Drama and Dance program is performance-oriented, with workshops in acting, lighting and sound, scripting, makeup and dance. Debating and chess teams compete regularly. Students to Year 9 and special interest groups attend the school camp at Lake Eildon. Year 9 students participate in a community involvement program and special engagement activities.
Student welfare programs: The school’s programs are supported by a high level of pastoral care for each student.
Enrolments and scholarships: School prospectus and enrolment information are available on request. Entrance scholarships are offered at Years 7, 9 and 11.
Independent Uniting Church co-educational Kindergarten to Year 12: co-educational Kindergarten and boys Prep to Year 6 at Essendon Campus, girls Prep to Year 6 at Moonee Ponds Campus, boys and girls Years 7 to 10 and co-educational Years 11 and 12 at Keilor East Campus.