Metropolitan North Directorate Principals' Conference

Year 11 student and SLC Chairperson Victoria demonstrated outstanding leadership at the 2026 Metropolitan North Directorate Principals’ Conference, representing the Minister’s Student Council and MCing the event for Principals from 269 schools. Victoria was highly articulate and received outstanding feedback for the confidence and maturity with which she commanded the room.

This authentic leadership opportunity supported the development of potential across the social-emotional and intellectual domains, fostering student voice, communication and leadership. Congratulations to Victoria on representing our school with such distinction.

Environment Leader of the Year - Viv Year 12

Congratulations to Viv, who was named Environment Leader of the Year by the Beecroft Rotary Club, selected from more than 80 applicants. This outstanding achievement recognises his leadership, initiative and commitment to making a positive contribution to the environment and wider community.

The award reflects the development of potential across the social-emotional and intellectual domains, providing further opportunities for Viv to extend his leadership through professional mentorship and a guest appearance on the Youth Amplified Podcast. Congratulations on this exceptional achievement!

Year 11 Debating Team - Wins AGAIN!

The Year 11 Debating Team continues to impress in the Premier’s Debating Challenge, securing a Round 5 victory over Kanahooka High School. Arguing against the topic “That we should ban personalised algorithms,” Anna, Viv, Charlotte and Josh impressed the adjudicator with the quality of their evidence, strong reasoning and effective rebuttals. This latest win places the team among the state's top schools in this year's competition and reflects the hard work, preparation, and teamwork demonstrated throughout the challenge.

The achievement showcases students extending their potential in the intellectual domain through critical thinking, sophisticated reasoning and effective communication.

Congratulations to the team and to Ms Ormiston for her ongoing guidance and coaching.

Department of Student Voices in Education and Schools (DOVES) Meeting - Victoria Year 10

As a member of the Minister’s Student Council (DOVES), Victoria participated in an online and distance education roundtable alongside student representatives and senior NSW Department of Education staff. Students explored important issues including effective online teaching and the mental health and wellbeing of distance education students, sharing perspectives and recommendations to help inform future improvements.

This authentic leadership opportunity supported the development of potential across the social-emotional and intellectual domains, enabling our student to demonstrate student voice, critical thinking, collaboration and confident communication while contributing to discussions at a state level.

A Literary Feast!

Our annual English Extension 2 Feast Night provided a wonderful opportunity for students to share excerpts from their Major Works with fellow students, families and guests. The evening celebrated the creativity, dedication and thoughtful work of our students, while providing an opportunity for engaging discussion and reflection.

Through the development and presentation of their Major Works, students extended their potential across the intellectual and creative domains, demonstrating sophisticated thinking, originality and highly developed communication skills.

A special thank you to Mr T Williams and Mr Leys for their guidance, expertise and ongoing support of our English Extension 2 students.

3D Printing - Theo Year 11

Year 11 student Theo has transformed his passion for 3D printing into an opportunity to extend his skills and support learning across the school. After teachers recognised the quality and complexity of his work, Theo progressed from maintaining one 3D printer to managing all four printers within the TAS department.

Through designing complex models, troubleshooting hardware and software, and applying technologies such as CAD and mapping data, Theo continues to extend his potential across the intellectual and creative domains. His initiative, expertise and willingness to share his knowledge with students and staff demonstrate how teacher recognition, mentoring and authentic opportunities can support talent development and student agency.

Congratulations to Mr Wilson and the TAS team for recognising Theo’s potential and providing the guidance, encouragement and authentic opportunities that have enabled him to extend his skills and expertise.

NSW Schools Cup - Volleyball - 5th!

On 19 June, our boys’ volleyball team competed in the NSW Schools Cup Year 12 Division 2 at Sydney Olympic Park, achieving an impressive 5th place from 24 schools. Strong performances saw the team finish first in their pool and progress to the finals, where they competed in a closely fought match.

Competing at this level provided students with an opportunity to extend their potential in the physical domain, demonstrating skill, teamwork, resilience and determination under pressure. Congratulations to the team and their fabulous teachers for their dedication, guidance and support.

House on Fire

The Year 11 production of House on Fire showcased students developing their potential in the creative domain, aligned with the NSW Department of Education’s HPGE policy. Students brought remarkable depth and nuance to their characters, using sophisticated characterisation and expert comedic timing to engage the audience with challenging ideas.

Strong ensemble work and thoughtful interpretation reflected the students’ dedication and creativity. With a focus on student voice and agency, supported by expert teacher guidance, the production provided an authentic opportunity for students to extend their creativity, collaboration and performance skills.

City of Ryde Dance Eisteddfod - 4th Place!

Our students proudly represented the school at the City of Ryde Dance Eisteddfod, competing against 12 other groups in the jazz section and achieving an impressive 4th place. Performing an energetic jazz routine to a Britney Spears number, the team received positive feedback from the judges for their great cannon flow work, strong unison, choreography and technical execution.

The experience provided an authentic opportunity for students to extend and showcase their potential in the creative domain, while developing confidence, collaboration and performance skills. Congratulations to our dancers, and a special thank you to our dedicated Mrs Zavone.

Battle of the Bands - 1st Place!

On 1 July, our talented student musicians took to the stage at Battle of the Bands, a live music competition that provides students with the opportunity to showcase their musicianship, creativity, stage presence and teamwork. Our students delivered an outstanding performance and were thrilled to take out the win!

This achievement highlights the development of student potential in the creative domain and the value of authentic performance opportunities. Congratulations to our talented students, and a special thank you to our dedicated teachers whose guidance, encouragement and ongoing support helped make this fantastic achievement possible.

Congratulations to Sidharth - Year 9

Sidharth has demonstrated exceptional achievement in Year 9 English through his recent assessment task, showcasing thoughtful critical thinking, insightful analysis, and a mature understanding of how texts can challenge readers to consider different cultural perspectives. His work reflects a strong commitment to learning and academic excellence. We also acknowledge Mr Belling for fostering a classroom environment that encourages deep thinking and supports students to achieve their best. This is a wonderful accomplishment, and we commend Sidharth on his outstanding effort.

Parliament of NSW Schools Leadership Day

School Captains Spencer and Jemimah attended the Parliament of NSW Schools Leadership Day, joining student leaders from across the state for an enriching experience focused on leadership, civic engagement and public service. Through discussions with Members of Parliament, observing parliamentary proceedings and meeting the Governor of New South Wales, they gained valuable insights into leadership, decision-making and the democratic process. Participation in this event provided an opportunity to extend their leadership capabilities, develop a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and connect with other high-potential young leaders, supporting talent development within the social-emotional and intellectual domains of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) framework.

Year 8 Premier's Debating Challege - WIN!

The Year 8 Debating Team achieved a successful win against Cherrybrook Technology High School in Round One of the Premier’s Debating Challenge. Competing on the topic “Laptops should be banned in classrooms”, students demonstrated strong critical thinking, persuasive communication and teamwork as they constructed and delivered well-reasoned arguments. Their success reflects the dedication and effort invested in developing effective debating skills and highlights the value of the Premier’s Debating Challenge as an enrichment opportunity. Through participation in this program, students extend their intellectual and social-emotional capabilities, developing confidence, analytical thinking and communication skills in alignment with the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) framework.

Australian Athletics Junior Champion

Congratulations to Year 8 student Mathias, who represented NSW in the Australian Athletics Junior Championships for the 3000m Race Walk in Brisbane during the Easter holidays. Mathias achieved an impressive 4th place in his age group and set a new personal best, improving his time by 16 seconds.

This outstanding achievement demonstrates the development of high potential in the physical domain through commitment, perseverance and high-level athletic performance.

Sailing Championships

Pennant Hills High School students Eliza, Miranda, Jialin and Theo competed in the NSW Combined High Schools Sailing Championships alongside some of the state's most accomplished young sailors. Racing in challenging conditions against a fleet of more than 80 boats, they demonstrated advanced technical ability, strategic decision-making, teamwork and resilience, achieving a podium finish in the Flying 11 class and representing the school as an official team. Participation in state-level competition provides valuable opportunities for students to extend their potential, refine high-level performance skills and excel within the physical domain of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) framework. We thank Mr Wilson for organising and supporting this valuable opportunity for our students to challenge themselves and develop their talents at a state level.

Archival Viewing of Fangirls

Year 11 and 12 Drama students attended a screening of the archival production of Fangirls by Yve Blake at Belvoir Street Theatre. The experience enhanced students’ understanding of contemporary Australian theatre practice, providing valuable insights into staging, performance and production choices. For Year 12 students, the excursion supported their HSC studies, while Year 11 students gained inspiration and practical ideas as they prepare to stage their own productions.

Sydney North Hockey - Georgie Year 11

Congratulations to Georgie, who represented the Sydney North Hockey Team in Albury, with the team finishing 6th overall. Following her excellent performance, Georgie was selected for the Combined High Schools (CHS) Open Girls Hockey Team for the third consecutive year!

This outstanding achievement demonstrates the continued development of high potential in the physical domain, reflecting Georgie’s skill, commitment, perseverance and sustained high-level performance. We wish her every success!

Year 12 Premier's Debating WIN!!

Congratulations to the Year 12 Debating Team on their victory against Pendle Hill High School in the Premier’s Debating Challenge. Arguing the negative case on the topic, “That government cabinets should include members of the opposition,” students demonstrated advanced critical thinking, persuasive communication and teamwork skills. Their success has secured progression beyond the regional competition and into the wider zone stage, providing further opportunities to extend their intellectual potential and develop high-level analytical, research and public speaking skills.

Principals Commendation

The first Principal’s Commendation Morning Tea for the year celebrated the outstanding achievements of Year 12 students. Joined by their families, students were recognised for their academic excellence, diligence, resilience and perseverance as they progress through their HSC year. The event acknowledged their commitment to learning and their dedication to achieving personal success across a range of subjects.

Zone Cross Country Carnival

Nearly 100 of our students represented the school at the Zone Cross Country Carnival at St Ives Showground, demonstrating determination, resilience and sportsmanship despite challenging weather conditions. Students competed across a range of age groups and distances, showcasing their commitment to personal bests and team participation. Congratulations to all competitors, particulartly the 14 students achieving outstanding results and progressing to the Sydney North Cross Country Carnival.

Public Speaking Excellence

Year 11 students Katerina and Alyssa proudly represented Pennant Hills High School at the Plain English Speaking Competition held at Hornsby Girls High School. Competing alongside students from across Northern Sydney, they demonstrated strong communication, critical thinking and presentation skills through prepared speeches on topics of personal interest and social significance. Participation in this prestigious competition provided valuable opportunities to extend their intellectual potential, develop confidence in public speaking and engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives and ideas, supporting talent development within the intellectual and social-emotional domains of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) framework.

Premier's Debating Challenge - Round 2 WIN!

The Year 12 Debating Team once again represented the school with distinction, securing an impressive victory against Inner Sydney High School in the latest round of the Premier’s Debating Challenge.

Arguing the negative case on the topic, “Thawe should stop testing sportspeople for recreational drugs,” the team delivered strategic responses under pressure, winning convincingly across almost every major clash in the debate.

The Premier’s Debating Challenge supports the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by providing a high-level enrichment pathway that develops students’ intellectual, social-emotional, and creative capabilities.

Open Knockout Netball

The Pennant Hills High School Open Netball team demonstrated outstanding skill, teamwork and determination in their second match of the Open Knockout Netball Tournament against Kincumber High School. After a closely contested opening quarter, the team found their rhythm and worked together seamlessly to secure a convincing 62–38 victory. Progressing to the semi-final and quarter-final rounds, students had the opportunity to further develop their sporting talents, competitive performance skills and teamwork, reflecting the physical and social-emotional domains of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) framework.

Careers Expo

On Monday 11 May, PHHS hosted the Hills Tertiary Education and Careers Expo. This collaborative event with several local schools saw our MPC buzzing with eager students engaging with a wide range of providers, including universities, apprenticeship programs, and private colleges. The atmosphere was one of genuine interest and meaningful conversations.

The Careers Expo supported the school’s implementation of the High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) policy by giving students opportunities to explore future study and career pathways through engagement with tertiary institutions, training providers, and industry representatives.

Congratulations to our Careers Adviser, Ms Baker, for coordinating the event.

Emerging Leaders Workshop

Year 11 student Charlotte and Year 12 student Alyssa attended the Macquarie University Experience Day, followed by the Emerging Leaders Workshop.

Charlotte participated in lectures in Economics, Psychology and Marketing. Alyssa attended sessions in Law and Politics.

During the workshop, both students collaborated with like-minded Emerging Leaders Award recipients to further develop their communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Through a series of collaborative challenges, they learned how to structure and deliver effective "elevator pitches" addressing real issues faced within their communities.

This program forms part of PHHS’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) provision, reflecting the school’s commitment to providing high-potential students with opportunities to extend their learning, build confidence and develop leadership skills beyond the classroom.

Year 7 Camp – Lake Macquarie

The PHHS Year 7 Camp at Lake Macquarie was a fun, memorable and action-packed three-day experience for our Year 7 students.

They participated in a wide range of exciting activities, including high-flying adventures, teamwork challenges and outdoor experiences. Supported every step of the way by dedicated staff, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and celebrate their achievements.

The camp also played an important role in supporting students as they transition into high school, helping them build friendships, confidence and a strong sense of belonging within the PHHS community.

Experiences such as the Year 7 Camp reflect PHHS’s commitment to providing enriching opportunities beyond the classroom that develop essential life skills, including resilience, independence and collaboration.

Australian Mountain Biking (MTB) Interschools
Competition 2026

The Australian MTB Interschools 2026 was held at Thredbo from March 2–6, bringing together student riders from across the country for a week of competition and camaraderie.

Eight PHHS students proudly represented the school, competing in downhill, flow, pump track and enduro events.

The week provided the opportunity for riders to challenge themselves, support one another and create lasting memories on and off the track.

Duke of Edinburgh

Fifteen Year 10 students successfully completed their Silver Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey, paddling from Wisemans Ferry to Brooklyn Bridge over three days. Throughout the expedition, students developed teamwork, leadership, resilience and outdoor recreation skills while navigating challenging conditions, planning daily activities and managing campsite responsibilities. Their cooperation, problem-solving and perseverance were evident throughout the journey, culminating in the successful completion of this significant milestone in the Duke of Edinburgh Award program.

International Women’s Day Breakfast

To mark International Women’s Day, several SLC students attended the Zonta International breakfast, centred on this year’s theme, Balance the Scales, highlighting justice, safety and equality for women and girls.

Students heard from keynote speaker Dr Eliza Middleton, who encouraged reflection on expectations and the many ways leadership and progress can be achieved.

We congratulate school captain Jemimah, a finalist in the 2026 Young Women’s Leadership Award, for her commitment to supporting women and girls and advocating for positive change.

The event was a meaningful celebration of the strength and achievements of women.

Year 11 Biology Excursion

Year 11 Biology students visited the Bateau Bay rock platforms to conduct fieldwork investigating ecosystem dynamics and biodiversity in a coastal environment. Through firsthand observations and the use of scientific sampling techniques, students examined the relationships between organisms and their habitats, while analysing how abiotic factors influence species distribution. The excursion provided valuable opportunities to develop practical investigation, data analysis and scientific communication skills, supporting key course outcomes and preparing students for future assessment tasks.

Chau Chak Museum Excursion

Year 11 Ancient History students visited the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney to enhance their understanding of the Cultural Role of Museums. Through hands-on analysis of artefacts dating back over 8,000 years, students applied historical inquiry skills while exploring museum preservation practices, ethical considerations and the interpretation of ancient cultures. The excursion provided valuable real-world connections to their classroom learning and future studies.

Zone Swimming Carnival

On Wednesday of Week 6, Mrs Zavone led our Zone Swimming Team to the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre to compete for a place at the Sydney North Swimming Carnival.

It was an incredible start to the day with Mathieu C breaking the 16 Years Boys 100m backstroke zone record!

Our team of 53 swimmers had a fantastic day, with standout performances including a win for the 13 Years Girls in the 4x50m freestyle relay.

We are also proud to celebrate our age champions, Natalie R (15 Years Girls) and Mathieu C (16 Years Boys), for their exceptional achievement!

Congratulations Teodora - ARTEXPRESS 2026

The Secretary for Education, Mr Murat Dizdar, highlighted the exemplary HSC artwork of our very own Teodora. He shared that her piece had particularly resonated with him during his preview and congratulated her in front of the audience, inviting her to stand and respond to several questions.

ARTEXPRESS 2026 is a premier annual exhibition showcasing exceptional artworks created by New South Wales (NSW) students for their 2025 Higher School Certificate (HSC) Visual Arts examination. We are extremely proud of Teodora and congratulate her on this incredible achievement.

OnStage Excursion - Year 11 and Year 12 Drama

On Thursday 12 February, Year 11 and Year 12 Drama students attended the OnStage showcase at the Seymour Centre to view outstanding 2025 Year 12 HSC Drama works. They explored HSC Individual Design Projects in the foyer and enjoyed a variety of monologues, group performances, a Video Drama, and a staged script reading.

The students were highly engaged, leading to thought-provoking and passionate discussions. The experience will be invaluable in guiding their own HSC Drama project choices and setting high benchmarks for excellence.

Mirai: Futures with Japan, Macquarie University Excursion

On Thursday 12 February, Year 10–12 Japanese students attended the “Mirai – Futures in Japan” information day at Macquarie University with over 400 students from 20 schools. The event provided great opportunities to explore future pathways in Japanese language and culture, reflecting PHHS’s commitment to enriching language learning.

Students heard from Dr Wes Robertson (Senior Lecturer, Japanese Studies), Adam Claydon-Platt (founder of BoobooSKI), current exchange students, and a JET Program alum. They also joined rajio-taisou exercises with Pikachu, Kahoot quizzes, language exchange games, and enjoyed kare-raisu (Japanese curry rice) for lunch.

SLR Urban Surf Excursion

Year 11 and 12 Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (SLR) students attended URBNSURF Park, where they developed practical surfing skills in a safe and controlled environment. Following a land-based coaching session, students applied their learning on ocean-like waves, building confidence, balance, coordination and water safety awareness. The experience encouraged resilience, teamwork and active participation while highlighting the physical, social and recreational benefits of engaging in lifelong physical activity.

Annual School Music Festival

The Music Festival was a huge success on the evening of Wednesday 11 June, where a very appreciative audience watched our Pennant Hills High School Music Ensembles perform in two concerts – Concert Band 1, Concert Band 2, Big Band, Junior Stage Band, the String Ensemble and the
Choir.

Several of the HSC Music students also performed on the night, as well as four of our local Primary School Bands – West Pennant Hills PS, Pennant Hills PS, Normanhurst West PS and Thornleigh West PS.