Learning
At our school, we teach the NSW curriculum and offer many different subjects to support each student’s learning. We know that development of skills in literacy and numeracy are the building blocks for learning and for everyday life. Our teachers use effective teaching strategies to help students achieve their goals.
What students learn
Students learn a wide range of subjects in the NSW curriculum. They build skills, think creatively and prepare for life beyond school.
In Year 7, students at our school will study the following subjects:
- English
- Geography
- History
- Languages
- Mathematics
- Music
- Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
- Science
- Technology Mandatory
- Visual Arts
In Year 8, students will study the following mandatory subjects:
- English
- Japanese or Italian
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
- Science
- Technology Mandatory
- Music
- Visual Arts
In Year 9 and 10, students will study the following mandatory subjects:
- English
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
- Science
In addition to the above mandatory subjects, students will also study three of the following elective courses:
- Commerce
- Geography Elective
- Italian and Japanese
- Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)
- Critical Thinking
- Philosophy
- Elective History
- Engineering
- Food Technology
- Graphics Technology
- Computing Technology
- Photographic & Digital Media
- Drama
- Visual Arts
- Young Experts Program
- Science Inquiry
In Year 10, our school also offers the following accelerated or compacted Stage 6 courses:
- Mathematics Advanced
- Ancient History
- Business Studies
In Year 11, students will undertake twelve units of study including English Advanced.
2-unit courses on offer at Penrith Selective High School:
- Ancient History
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Drama
- Economics
- Engineering Studies
- Geography
- Health and Movement Science
- Japanese Beginners
- Japanese Continuers
- Legal Studies
- Modern History
- Music 1
- Music 2
- Physics
- Society and Culture
- Software Engineering
- Visual Arts
1-unit courses on offer at Penrith Selective High School:
- English Extension 1
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Studies of Religion 1
In Year 12, students continue the pattern of study from Year 11.
Students can, however, decrease their units of study to a minimum of ten units.
Students may also take up the study of one or more of the following 1-unit extension courses:
- English Extension 2
- History Extension
- Japanese Extension
- Mathematics Extension 2
- Music Extension
- Science Extension
Currently, there are no approved SRE or SEE providers operating at our school. If you would like these classes to be offered, please get in touch with us, we welcome discussions with families about your preferences and options.
For more information, visit the department’s website or contact us.
As a fully selective high school, we provide targeted support to help high potential and gifted students thrive and achieve their best. Our teachers identify students’ strengths early, whether in academic learning, creativity, leadership, problem-solving, or sport, and ensure they are challenged with lessons and enrichment opportunities that match their abilities.
Our school offers the following accelerated or compacted courses:
- Mathematics Advanced
- Ancient History
- Business Studies
Our learning approach
At Penrith Selective High School, we use explicit teaching to guide students through new concepts, clearly explaining what they are learning, why it matters, and how to approach it step by step. This helps students build deep understanding and tackle complex ideas with confidence.
Learning at our school is student-centred, inclusive, and practical. We are committed to equity, access, and supporting a wide range of learning styles and needs. Our teachers use proven strategies and engage in ongoing professional learning to ensure teaching is evidence-based and highly effective.
Our learning approach includes:
- Real-world learning: hands-on tasks, collaborative group work, and opportunities to explore and extend ideas.
- Technology: integrated thoughtfully to enhance learning and develop digital skills.
- Flexible teaching: tailored support that challenges students appropriately while prioritising wellbeing.
- Community connections: excursions, local programs, and partnerships that enrich learning beyond the classroom.
Helping students progress
We support every student’s academic progress by:
- checking their progress and giving clear and timely feedback
- setting learning goals with each student
- giving extra help with personalised plans and support from specialist staff
- reporting on each student’s learning progress so parents and carers know how their child is doing
- providing targeted literacy and numeracy support in small groups
- making wellbeing part of everyday learning
- working with families to support learning at home and school
- helping students through transitions, like starting school or moving to a new stage of learning.
Learn more about additional learning support at our school.
Why choose us for your child’s learning?
Strong foundations
We focus on the skills your child needs to succeed in school and beyond. This helps them feel confident and prepared for the future.
High-quality education
We offer a range of subjects to match what students enjoy and want to learn about. Our skilled teachers support every student to find what they love, do their best and succeed.
Inclusive and personalised learning
Our teachers adjust how they teach to suit your child’s needs, interests and learning pace. We make sure every student feels confident and supported.
Extension opportunities
Some students are ready for more challenges. We offer open-ended tasks, enrichment programs and support. We help all students to reach their full potential.
Want to know more about our subjects?
We can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.
Student opportunities and activities
Discover clubs, sports and other activities your child can enjoy at school.
Our principal and staff
Get to know our principal and staff, who work together to create a positive school culture.