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Perth Modern School Calendar 2026-2027 — Western Australia, Australia

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Perth Modern School — affectionately known as “Perth Mod” — is Western Australia’s only fully academically selective co-educational public senior high school, located at 90 Roberts Road, Subiaco, Western Australia 6008, an inner suburb approximately 3 kilometres west of the Perth CBD.

Perth Modern School

The school was founded in 1911, making it the first government high school in Western Australia. When it opened, Perth Modern introduced three pioneering reforms that were radical for their era:

  1. Co-education — boys and girls learning together in the same school (though initially in separate classrooms with different entrances)
  2. No corporal punishment or detentions — a progressive departure from most schools of the time
  3. Modern languages — teaching French and other modern languages rather than focusing solely on classical studies

Today, the school caters to approximately 1,100-1,200 students in Years 8-12 and has built a reputation as one of the highest-performing schools in Australia, consistently producing exceptional WACE (Western Australian Certificate of Education) and ATAR results.

Principal and Leadership

Perth Modern School is led by Principal Mr Mitchell Mackay, who was appointed in July 2023. Mr Mackay previously served as the substantive Principal of John Curtin College of the Arts for 17 years and was recognised as WA Principal of the Year at the 2021 WA Education Awards. His career with the Department of Education spans more than 40 years, including a range of senior leadership roles across the state.

The school’s motto — “Exceptional Schooling, Exceptional Students” — reflects the high standards maintained across all aspects of school life.

How to Gain Entry

Perth Modern is a fully selective government school, meaning all students must sit the Gifted and Talented (GAT) test administered by the WA Department of Education to gain entry. Entry is awarded purely on academic merit, with approximately 230 new students admitted in Year 8 each year from a field of thousands of applicants from across Western Australia.

The school also offers a Year 7 Entry Scholarship for a small number of students to enter the school a year early.

A Sphinx Scholarship is available to support students facing financial hardship, ensuring that the school remains accessible to talented students from all backgrounds.

Academic Programmes

Perth Modern School offers a rigorous academic curriculum across the Middle Years (Years 8-9) and Senior Years (Years 10-12):

  • Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) — the standard WA senior school certificate, taken by all students in Years 11-12
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme — available as an alternative senior pathway for eligible students
  • Thriving Minds — the school’s dedicated student wellbeing programme, supporting academic performance alongside mental health and personal resilience
  • BYOD Programme — all students use personal devices as part of the school’s contemporary learning environment
  • Music Programme — a structured, specialist music programme with ensembles, orchestras, and individual tuition

Acknowledgement of Country

Perth Modern School acknowledges the Whadjuk Noongar people as the traditional custodians of the Boodja (country) on which the school learns. The school pays respect to its Elders past and present and honours the Noongar people’s enduring educational legacy and connection to this land.

Contact Information

DetailInformation
 Address 90 Roberts Road, Subiaco WA 6008, Australia
 Phone (08) 9392 6855
 Email perthmodernschool@education.wa.edu.au
 Website perthmodern.wa.edu.au
 Principal Mr Mitchell Mackay
 School type Government, fully selective, co-educational senior high school
 Year levels Years 8 – 12
 Founded 1911

School Hours

Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm | Saturday–Sunday: Closed

Perth Modern School Term Dates 2026

Perth Modern School follows the WA Department of Education term dates as a government school. Exact school-specific key dates (including student-free days, examination periods, and special events) are published annually on the official school website at perthmodern.wa.edu.au/key-dates-2026/.

TermStart DateEnd Date
 Term 1 Wednesday, 2 February 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026
 Term 2 Monday, 20 April 2026 Friday, 3 July 2026
 Term 3 Monday, 20 July 2026 Friday, 25 September 2026
 Term 4 Monday, 12 October 2026 Thursday, 17 December 2026

Perth Modern School Term Dates 2027

TermStart DateEnd Date
 Term 1 Monday, 1 February 2027 Friday, 9 April 2027
 Term 2 Monday, 26 April 2027 Friday, 2 July 2027
 Term 3 Monday, 19 July 2027 Friday, 24 September 2027
 Term 4 Monday, 11 October 2027 Thursday, 16 December 2027

Note: Perth Modern School is a selective government school following the WA Department of Education gazetted term dates. However, the school may set specific student-free days, examination blocks, and key events within these terms that vary from standard government school dates. Always confirm school-specific key dates via perthmodern.wa.edu.au/key-dates-2026/ before finalising plans.

Last verified: 10 July 2026. Official sources: WA Department of Education — Term Dates and Perth Modern School — Key Dates 2026

Community and Alumni

Perth Modern School has a rich network of community and alumni support:

  • Perth Modernian Society — the active alumni association maintaining connections with former students
  • The Sphinx Foundation — supporting scholarships and school development
  • Museum Association Inc — preserving and celebrating the school’s 100+ year history
  • Parents & Citizens (P&C) Association — active parent body
  • Foundation Building Fund — supporting ongoing facility improvements

Notable alumni of Perth Modern span fields including medicine, law, academia, politics, the arts, and business, reflecting the school’s 100+ year legacy of producing high achievers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I gain entry to Perth Modern School?

All students must sit the WA Department of Education’s Gifted and Talented (GAT) test. Entry is awarded on academic merit, with approximately 230 Year 8 places available annually.

Does Perth Modern School offer the IB?

Yes. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is available alongside WACE as a senior school pathway for eligible students.

Is Perth Modern School a private school?

No. Perth Modern is a government (public) school, fully funded by the WA Department of Education, with no tuition fees — entry is by academic merit only via the GAT test.

Who is the current Principal?

Mr Mitchell Mackay, appointed in July, was previously Principal of John Curtin College of the Arts and 2021 WA Principal of the Year.

Who do I contact for admissions or school-specific queries?

Contact Perth Modern School at (08) 9392 6855 or perthmodernschool@education.wa.edu.au.

Related Western Australia School Calendars

Sydney Grammar School Calendar 2026-2027 – New South Wales, Australia

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Sydney Grammar School (SGS) is one of Australia’s most prestigious independent schools, a non-denominational boys’ school with a history spanning more than 170 years in the heart of Sydney.

Sydney Grammar School

The school’s main campus is located on College Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales — in the inner city, adjacent to Hyde Park — with two preparatory campuses at Edgecliff (Paddington) and St Ives (upper north shore). SGS is a founding member of the Great Public Schools Association (GPS) and a member of the Associated Grammar Schools network.

Founded in 1857 under the auspices of the NSW government, Sydney Grammar has consistently ranked among Australia’s top academic schools, producing alumni who have made significant contributions across law, medicine, academia, literature, politics, the arts, and many other fields.

Headmaster and School Philosophy

Sydney Grammar School is led by Headmaster John Vallance, who has held the role since 2012. The school is distinctive among elite independent schools for its deliberate, principled rejection of several orthodoxies: it does not compete for an academic ranking, publishes no league table position, and avoids many trappings of institutional prestige in favour of a quiet, focused commitment to learning for its own sake.

The school’s philosophy centres on the cultivation of lifelong intellectual curiosity and academic rigour, with a curriculum that retains significant emphasis on classical disciplines — Latin, Ancient Greek, History, and Literature — alongside modern sciences, mathematics, and languages. SGS is notable for not offering the International Baccalaureate, choosing instead to complete the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), which the school has consistently dominated.

Three Campuses

CampusLocationYears
 College Street (Main Campus) Darlinghurst NSW 2010 Years 7–12 (Senior School)
 Edgecliff Preparatory School Alma Street, Paddington NSW 2021 Kindy – Year 6
 St Ives Preparatory School Ayres Road, St Ives NSW 2075 Kindy – Year 6

Sydney Grammar School Term Dates 2026 (Official — All Campuses)

The following dates are sourced directly from the official SGS website (sydgram.nsw.edu.au/news-events/term-dates/).

EventDate
 New Boys (Year 7 first day) Tuesday, 27 January 2026
 Term I Wednesday, 28 January – Wednesday, 1 April 2026
 Term II Monday, 20 April – Friday, 26 June 2026
 Term III Tuesday, 21 July – Wednesday, 23 September 2026
 Term IV Monday, 12 October – Thursday, 3 December 2026 (Speech Day)

Sydney Grammar School Term Dates 2027 (Draft — Official)

EventDate
 New Boys (Year 7 first day) Thursday, 28 January 2027
 Term I Friday, 29 January – Wednesday, 7 April 2027
 Term II Tuesday, 27 April – Friday, 25 June 2027
 Term III Tuesday, 20 July – Wednesday, 22 September 2027
 Term IV Monday, 11 October – Thursday, 9 December 2027 (Speech Day)

Note: 2027 dates are marked as DRAFT on the official school website — confirm final dates via sydgram.nsw.edu.au closer to the year.

The Edgecliff and St Ives Preparatory Campuses may have slightly different start/end dates from the main College Street Campus — confirm directly with each campus at the contacts below.

Last verified: 09th July 2026. Official source: Sydney Grammar School — Term Dates (directly from sydgram.nsw.edu.au)

Co-Curricular Life

Sydney Grammar School offers a rich and highly competitive co-curricular programme, particularly in:

  • Sport — GPS competition in rowing (Boat Club), cricket, football, swimming, athletics, and many other codes; weekly fixtures and training schedules published on the school website
  • Music — multiple ensembles, orchestras, and choirs; regular concerts
  • Debating — GPS Debating Competition, Eastside Debating, and Independent Schools competitions
  • Drama — annual productions at the College Street campus
  • Cadets — Army Cadet Corps and Air Force Cadets
  • Chess, Mathematics competitions, and other clubs

The school’s Boat Club is particularly distinguished, with a long history in Sydney rowing and strong results in the Head of the River.

Publications and Community

SGS maintains several community publications, including:

  • Grammar Newsletter — regular school news
  • SGS Magazine — feature publication
  • The Sydneian — annual school record

Alumni are known as Old Sydneians, with an active Old Sydneians’ Cricket Club and regular community events including “Dr V’s Swing Thing” (a beloved music event).

Parent associations include the Women’s Association, Fathers’ Association, Music Association, and Parents and Friends of the Boat Club Association.

Contact Information

CampusAddressPhone
 College Street (Main) College Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 (02) 9332 5800
 Edgecliff Preparatory Alma Street, Paddington NSW 2021 (02) 9366 0100
 St Ives Preparatory Ayres Road, St Ives NSW 2075 (02) 8302 5200
 Website sydgram.nsw.edu.au —

Admissions and Enrolment

SGS offers several admission pathways, including standard enrolment, Fee-Assisted Places (means-tested financial assistance), and Scholarships. Entrance assessments are required, and demand for places is high — early enquiry is recommended. The school publishes a prospectus available via the website. Families interested in the preparatory campuses should note that St Ives Preparatory has its own separate admissions process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sydney Grammar School a selective school?

SGS has an entrance assessment process, but it is an independent school, not a government selective school. Entry is managed by the school independently.

Does SGS offer the IB?

No. Sydney Grammar School completes the NSW HSC rather than the International Baccalaureate — a deliberate philosophical choice consistent with the school’s focus on the NSW curriculum.

What are the three campuses?

College Street (Darlinghurst) for Years 7-12, Edgecliff Preparatory (Paddington) and St Ives Preparatory (St Ives) for Kindergarten-Year 6.

When is Speech Day for 2026?

Speech Day falls on Thursday, 3 December 2026, marking the close of Term IV.

Who do I contact for admissions?

Contact the relevant campus directly: College Street (02) 9332 5800, Edgecliff (02) 9366 0100, or St Ives (02) 8302 5200.

Related New South Wales School Calendars

Walford Anglican School Calendar 2026-2027 – South Australia, Australia

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Walford Anglican School for Girls is an independent, Anglican, co-educational day and boarding school for girls, located at 316 Unley Road, Hyde Park, South Australia 5061 — a leafy, prestigious inner suburb of Adelaide. The school caters to approximately 550 students from ELC to Year 12, including approximately 65 boarders in Years 7 to 12, drawn from across South Australia, interstate, and internationally.

Walford Anglican School

Founded in 1893 by the pioneering headmistress Lydia Adamson — who opened the school’s doors in her own home on Fisher Street, Malvern — Walford has grown across more than 130 years into one of Adelaide’s most respected independent girls’ schools. The school moved to its current Hyde Park site in December 1912.

The school is led by Principal Ms Rebecca Clarke, who was recognised as an Excellence Awardee in the Australian Education Awards for Principal of the Year (Non-Government). The school itself was an Excellence Awardee for Secondary School of the Year (Non-Government).

A Non-Selective School with a Strong Academic Record

Unlike many independent schools, Walford has a non-selective enrolment policy — all girls are welcome, regardless of academic testing or prior results. Despite this open-access approach, the school’s academic results are outstanding: 51% of Walford’s Year 12 students achieved an ATAR above 90, placing them in the top 10% of the nation.

Walford’s motto — “Virtute et Veritate” (Moral Courage and Truth) — reflects the values that underpin this academic achievement and the school’s broader commitment to character development.

International Baccalaureate

Walford is an IB World School offering the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the ELC and Junior School, supporting students to be internationally minded, curious, and principled learners. Students in the ELC and Junior School also study French and Chinese as Languages Other Than English under the PYP framework. Senior School students complete the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

(Note: The original post on this page incorrectly stated that Walford was “the first all-girls school in Australia to offer all three IB programs.” This is not currently accurate — Walford offers the IB PYP in the Junior School and SACE in the Senior School. Families interested in IB Diploma options should confirm current programme availability directly with the school.)

Exciting 2026 Developments: Mabel Jewell Baker House

A major milestone for Walford in 2026 is the opening of Mabel Jewell Baker House — new, purpose-built Secondary School learning facilities specifically designed for contemporary student learning. The building features bright, modern classrooms, collaborative learning zones, and creative areas for exploration, representing a significant investment in the school’s future. Secondary School students will enjoy these new facilities throughout the 2026 school year.

Boarding at Walford

The Walford Boarding House is located within the Secondary School campus, providing a comfortable home-away-from-home for girls in Years 7 to 12. With approximately 65 boarders, the house fosters strong friendships and a rich weekend programme of co-curricular, social, and recreational activities. Dedicated boarding staff maintain open communication with families to ensure boarders thrive both academically and personally.

Co-Curricular Life

Walford is a member of the Independent Girls Schools Sports Association (IGSSA) and has a distinguished sporting record, including:

  • 19 IGSSA Florence Eaton Cup wins for the Girls First Eight (Head of the River), making it one of the most successful rowing programmes in South Australian girls’ schools
  • A wide range of sports, including Australian Rules Football, netball, and volleyball
  • Music programmes including ensembles, choirs, and solo performances
  • Immersive camps, outdoor education, and international study tours

Notable Alumnae

Walford’s network of alumnae includes prominent figures such as:

  • Frances Adamson — Governor of South Australia, former Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and former Australian Ambassador to China
  • Christine Adamson — Justice of the Supreme Court of New South Wales

Acknowledgement of Country

Walford acknowledges and pays respect to the Kaurna people, the traditional custodians of the Adelaide Plains, on whose land the school stands. The school pays tribute to Elders both past and present and recognises emerging Kaurna leaders who continue to carry forward their rich cultural heritage.

Contact Information

DetailInformation
 Address 316 Unley Road, Hyde Park SA 5061, Australia
 Phone (08) 8272 6555
 Website walford.sa.edu.au
 Principal Ms Rebecca Clarke
 School type Independent, Anglican, girls’ day and boarding school
 Year levels ELC – Year 12
 Enrolment Approximately 550 students (65 boarders)
 Founded 1893
 Motto Virtute et Veritate (Moral Courage and Truth)

School Hours

Monday–Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm | Saturday–Sunday: Closed

Walford Term Dates 2026

As an independent school, Walford sets its own term calendar. The following dates are broadly aligned with the South Australian Department for Education calendar, though specific start and end dates may vary — confirm directly via walford.sa.edu.au.

TermStart Date (Reference — SA Govt Schools)End DateBreak Following
 Term 1 Monday, 2 February 2026 Thursday, 9 April 2026 10–26 April 2026
 Term 2 Monday, 27 April 2026 Friday, 3 July 2026 4–19 July 2026
 Term 3 Monday, 20 July 2026 Friday, 25 September 2026 26 Sep – 11 Oct 2026
 Term 4 Monday, 12 October 2026 Friday, 11 December 2026 Summer holidays begin

Note: As an independent school, Walford’s exact term start and end dates may differ from South Australian government school dates — including additional pupil-free days, orientation days for new students, and boarding-specific arrival/departure dates. Always confirm Walford’s specific 2026-2027 term dates directly via walford.sa.edu.au or by contacting the school office.

Last verified: 09 July 2026. Official source: South Australia Department for Education — Term Dates (independent school dates may vary — confirm via walford.sa.edu.au)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Walford select students by academic testing?

No. Walford has a non-selective enrolment policy, welcoming all girls regardless of prior academic results.

What IB programmes does Walford offer?

Walford currently offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the ELC and Junior School. Senior School students complete the SACE.

Who is the current Principal?

Ms Rebecca Clarke, who was recognised as an Excellence Awardee for Principal of the Year (Non-Government) in the Australian Education Awards.

What are Walford’s ATAR results?

51% of Walford’s Year 12 students achieved an ATAR above 90 — placing them in the top 10% nationally.

Who do I contact for enrolment or school-specific queries?

Contact Walford at (08) 8272 6555 or visit walford.sa.edu.au.

Related South Australia School Calendars

Hurstville Public School Calendar 2026-2027 – New South Wales, Australia

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Hurstville Public School is a government-funded, co-educational primary school located at 52-96 Forest Road, Hurstville, New South Wales 2220 — in Sydney’s south, part of the Georges River local government area.

For nearly 150 years, the school has been a proud and integral part of the Hurstville community, consistently delivering high-quality education for Kindergarten through Year 6.

Hurstville Public School

Guided by the vision to “transform lives socially, emotionally, and academically,” the school supports every student to Strive for Success and grow as a respectful, responsible learner. With approximately 1,270 students, Hurstville Public School is one of the largest primary schools in New South Wales, supported by a staff of over 100.

Exceptional Cultural Diversity

What makes Hurstville Public School particularly distinctive is its extraordinary cultural diversity — one of the most multicultural school communities in NSW:

  • 97% of students come from non-English-speaking backgrounds
  • More than 50 different nationalities are represented
  • The largest group is of Chinese background, representing approximately 63% of students
  • Other major backgrounds include Arabic (11%), English (4%), Greek (2%), Hindi (2%), and Indonesian (2%)
  • Many students are at the beginning of their English language journey

This diversity, rather than being a challenge, is deeply embedded in the school’s ethos as a genuine strength — enriching the learning environment and driving a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and personalised teaching tailored to diverse learner needs.

Specialist Programmes

Hurstville Public School offers four distinct learning pathways within its main campus:

  • Mainstream classes — Kindergarten to Year 6, following the standard NSW curriculum
  • Opportunity Classes (OC) — Four Opportunity Classes for academically gifted and talented students, drawing applications from across the region via the NSW selective placement process
  • Support Unit — Four classes supporting students with mild and moderate disabilities, providing targeted, inclusive programmes
  • Community Languages — Reflecting the school’s multicultural community, with community language education available

School Leadership and Community

The school’s Executive Team includes Deputy Principals Mark Steed, Tanya Russell, and Dave Renshaw, alongside a team of Assistant Principals covering each year level (Kindergarten through Year 6) and the Support Unit.

The school is located in an area undergoing rapid urban redevelopment, with large multi-storey apartment buildings increasing the number of families within the school’s enrolment boundaries — meaning strong and growing demand for places.

Acknowledgement of Country

Hurstville Public School acknowledges the Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional custodians of the land on which the school stands, paying respect to their Elders both past and present.

Contact Information

DetailInformation
 Address 52-96 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220, Australia
 Phone (02) 9587 3963
 Email hurstville-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
 Website hurstville-p.schools.nsw.gov.au
 School type Government, co-educational primary school
 Year levels Kindergarten – Year 6
 Enrolment Approximately 1,270+ students

School Office Hours

Monday to Friday: 8:15 am – 3:15 pm during school term

Curriculum

Hurstville Public School delivers the full NSW curriculum, with strengths in literacy and numeracy as core priorities, supported by data-driven personalised teaching. Learning areas include:

  • English and Mathematics — with a strong focus on measurable literacy and numeracy outcomes
  • Science and Technology
  • Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE)
  • Creative Arts
  • Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE)

Co-curricular highlights include Science Fairs, Art Exhibitions, Literary Festivals, Sports Carnivals (both intra- and inter-school), cultural celebrations, school musicals, and charity drives.

Hurstville Public School Term Dates 2026 (Eastern Division)

Hurstville Public School follows the NSW Department of Education’s Eastern Division calendar, which applies to all public schools across the Greater Sydney region.

TermStart Date (Students)End DateSchool Development Days
 Term 1 Monday, 2 February 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026 Tue 27 Jan – Fri 30 Jan 2026
 Term 2 Wednesday, 22 April 2026 Friday, 3 July 2026 Mon 20 Apr – Tue 21 Apr 2026
 Term 3 Tuesday, 21 July 2026 Friday, 25 September 2026 Mon 20 July 2026
 Term 4 Tuesday, 13 October 2026 Thursday, 17 December 2026 Mon 12 October 2026

Hurstville Public School Term Dates 2027 (Eastern Division)

TermStart DateEnd Date
 Term 1 Thursday, 28 January 2027 Friday, 9 April 2027
 Term 2 Tuesday, 27 April 2027 Friday, 2 July 2027
 Term 3 Monday, 19 July 2027 Friday, 24 September 2027
 Term 4 Monday, 11 October 2027 Monday, 20 December 2027

School Holiday Periods 2026

  • Summer 2025–26: Mon 22 Dec 2025 – Mon 26 Jan 2026
  • Autumn: Tue 7 April – Fri 17 April 2026 (Mon 6 April is Easter Monday)
  • Winter: Mon 6 July – Fri 17 July 2026
  • Spring: Mon 28 September – Fri 9 October 2026
  • Summer 2026–27: Fri 18 December 2026 – Wed 27 January 2027

Note: ANZAC Day falls on a Saturday in 2026, so NSW does not observe a substitute Monday public holiday.

Last verified: 09 July 2026. Official source: NSW Department of Education — 2026 Term Dates and Hurstville Public School official website

Enrolment

Hurstville Public School offers enrolment for students from Kindergarten to Year 6 within its designated local intake area, with local students guaranteed a place. Due to the school’s popularity and the area’s rapid residential development, early enrolment enquiry is recommended.

For Opportunity Class placement (for academically gifted students in Years 5-6), families should apply through the NSW Department of Education’s selective placement process. Applications typically open in March and close in June each year for the following school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large is Hurstville Public School?

With approximately 1,270+ students, it is one of the largest primary schools in NSW, supported by a staff of over 100.

What is the cultural makeup of the school?

97% of students come from non-English-speaking backgrounds, with 50+ nationalities represented. Chinese-background students make up approximately 63% of enrolments.

Does Hurstville Public School offer Opportunity Classes?

Yes. The school hosts four Opportunity Classes for academically gifted and talented students, which draw applications from the broader region.

How old is Hurstville Public School?

The school has served the Hurstville community for nearly 150 years, reflecting a long-established presence in the area.

Who do I contact for enrolment or school-specific queries?

Contact Hurstville Public School at (02) 9587 3963 or hurstville-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au.

Related New South Wales School Calendars

Geelong Grammar School Calendar 2026-2027 – Victoria, Australia

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Geelong Grammar School (GGS), colloquially known as “Grammar” or sometimes as “Australia’s Eton,” is a private Anglican, co-educational boarding and day school — one of Australia’s most prestigious and historically significant independent schools.

The school’s main campus is located in Corio, on the northern outskirts of Geelong, Victoria, overlooking Corio Bay and Limeburners Bay, with additional campuses in Toorak (Melbourne) and Timbertop (near Mansfield in alpine Victoria).

Geelong Grammar School

Founded on 1 October 1855 under the auspices of the Church of England, GGS was established as a private venture to provide quality secondary education. It survived a period of financial closure (1860-1863), was rebuilt under the great headmaster John Bracebridge Wilson, and grew through the late 19th century into a nationally recognised school.

The school moved from its central Geelong site to the current expansive Corio campus in February 1914, where it occupies approximately 230 hectares of grounds overlooking the bay.

Today, GGS caters to approximately 1,500 students from ELC to Year 12, with approximately 800 boarders from Years 5 to 12 — one of the largest boarding populations of any school in Australia.

Principal and Leadership

Geelong Grammar School is led by Principal Rebecca Cody, who became the 12th Principal of GGS in 2018 — the first Australian-born and first female Principal in the school’s 170-year history. The school is governed by a School Council and maintains active communication with its community through “Recent Statements” published by the Principal and Chair of the School Council on significant matters.

Four Campuses: A Multi-Campus Education

GGS’s distinctive multi-campus structure offers students different environments and experiences across their schooling:

Corio Campus (Main Campus, Geelong) The centrepiece of GGS, spanning 230 hectares on a peninsula overlooking Corio Bay. Houses the Junior School (ELC to Year 6, with Year 7 from 2027 and Year 8 from 2028), Middle School (Years 7-9 currently, transitioning), and Senior School (Years 10-12). Boarding students from Years 5-12 live in dedicated Houses. The campus includes the Handbury Centre for Wellbeing — a state-of-the-art sports and health facility available for community hire.

Timbertop Campus (Near Mansfield, Alpine Victoria) One of the most distinctive aspects of any Australian school, Timbertop is a full-time residential campus for Year 9 students only. All GGS students spend Year 9 at Timbertop, immersed in the alpine environment. The programme was founded in 1953 by the visionary headmaster Sir James Darling, inspired by the Outward Bound movement and Kurt Hahn’s Gordonstoun School in Scotland. King Charles III famously spent two terms at Timbertop in 1966 during his time at GGS.

Toorak Campus (Melbourne) A vibrant, inspiring day campus in the heart of Toorak, Melbourne. Serving ELC to Year 6 (with Year 7 from 2027 and Year 8 from 2028), Toorak Campus allows families in inner Melbourne to access a GGS education from the earliest years.

Bostock House (Closed Term 1, 2026) Bostock House in Newtown, Geelong — GGS’s primary campus since 1998 — closed at the conclusion of Term 1, 2026. Students and staff relocated to the newly built Junior School at Corio Campus, marking a significant new chapter in the school’s long history.

Famous Alumni

Geelong Grammar School’s alumni list is remarkable, including:

  • King Charles III spent two terms at Timbertop in 1966
  • Rupert Murdoch — media mogul
  • Kerry Packer — media tycoon
  • Elisabeth Murdoch — philanthropist and distinguished Australian, after whom Elisabeth Murdoch House at Corio is named
  • Professor Tony Holmes AO — pioneering craniofacial surgeon, awarded the GGS Medal for Service to Society in May 2026

School Values and Positive Education

GGS’s school values of courage, compassion, and curiosity guide all aspects of school life. The school is also internationally recognised for its Institute of Positive Education (IOE), which develops and shares positive psychology-based education programmes with schools around the world — a genuine contribution to global education well beyond GGS itself.

Acknowledgement of Country

GGS acknowledges the traditional owners of the lands used by all four campuses — the Wadawurrung, Wurundjeri, and Taungurung people — and pays respect to their Elders, past, present, and emerging.

Contact Information

DetailInformation
 Main Campus Address Corio, Victoria (Geelong northern outskirts)
 Toorak Campus Address Toorak, Melbourne
 Phone +61 3 5273 9200
 Website ggs.vic.edu.au
 Principal Rebecca Cody
 School type Independent, Anglican, co-educational, boarding, and day
 Year levels ELC – Year 12
 Enrolment Approx. 1,500 students (800 boarders)
 Founded 1 October 1855

Geelong Grammar School Term Dates 2026

GGS sets its own term calendar across all four campuses. Dates below are sourced directly from the official GGS website (ggs.vic.edu.au/enrolment/ggs-term-dates/2026-2/).

Junior School — Corio Campus (ELC to Year 6)

TermClasses CommenceTerm EndMid-term Exeat
 Term 1 Wednesday, 28 January 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026 (3:30 pm) Fri 6 Mar (3:30 pm) – Mon 9 Mar
 Term 2 Tuesday, 21 April 2026 Friday, 26 June 2026 (3:30 pm) Fri 22 May (3:30 pm) – Mon 25 May
 Term 3 Tuesday, 21 July 2026 Friday, 18 September 2026 (3:30 pm) Fri 21 Aug (3:30 pm) – Mon 24 Aug
 Term 4 Tuesday, 6 October 2026 Thursday, 3 December 2026 (3:30 pm) Fri 30 Oct (3:30 pm) – Tue 3 Nov

Middle School and Senior School — Corio Campus (Years 7–12)

TermClasses CommenceTerm EndKey Notes
 Term 1 Friday, 30 January 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026 (8:00 am) Boarders arrive from Thu 29 Jan; Mid-term Exeat Fri 6 Mar (2 pm) – Mon 9 Mar.
 Term 2 Tuesday, 21 April 2026 Friday, 26 June 2026 (8:00 am) Mid-term Exeat/Parent Conversations Sat 23 May – Tue 26 May
 Term 3 Tuesday, 21 July 2026 Friday, 18 September 2026 (8:00 am) Mid-term Exeat/Parent Conversations Fri 21 Aug (2 pm) – Tue 25 Aug
 Term 4 Tuesday, 6 October 2026 Thursday, 3 December 2026 (8:00 am) Mid-term Exeat Sat 31 Oct – Tue 3 Nov

For MS and SS boarders, End of Term is 8:00 am, with the remainder of the day designated as a travel day.

Timbertop Campus (Year 9)

TermProgramme CommencesTerm EndExeat
 Term 1 Saturday, 31 January 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026 (8:00 am) Fri 6 Mar (8 am) –   Mon 9 Mar
 Term 2 Tuesday, 21 April 2026 Friday, 26 June 2026 (8:00 am) Sat 23 May (8 am) –  Tue 26 May
 Term 3 Monday, 20 July 2026 Sunday, 13 September 2026 (from Corio Campus, 4:30 pm, at conclusion of Athletics Day) Sat 22 Aug (10 am) – Tue 25 Aug
 Term 4 Tuesday, 6 October 2026 Friday, 4 December 2026 (10:30 am) Sat 31 Oct (8 am) –  Tue 3 Nov

Toorak Campus (ELC to Year 6, Melbourne)

TermClasses CommenceTerm EndKey Notes
 Term 1 Wednesday, 28 January 2026 Thursday, 2 April 2026 (3:15 pm) Labour Day Mon 9 Mar
 Term 2 Tuesday, 21 April 2026 Friday, 26 June 2026 (3:15 pm) King’s Birthday Mon 8 Jun
 Term 3 Tuesday, 21 July 2026 Friday, 18 September 2026 (3:15 pm) Mid-term break Mon 24 Aug
 Term 4 Tuesday, 6 October 2026 Thursday, 3 December 2026 (3:15 pm) Melbourne Cup Tue 3 Nov

Last verified: 08 July 2026. Official source: Geelong Grammar School — 2026 Term Dates (updated 19 June 2026)

Annual Traditions

  • Founders’ Day: Commemorated on or close to 24 June (the date in 1857 when the foundation stone was laid for the original central Geelong school building — that same stone is now built into the Corio clock tower)
  • Timbertop Athletics Day: End of Term 3 for Timbertop students, held at Corio Campus
  • Valedictory Dinner: End-of-year celebration for Year 12 students and families
  • House Dinners: Annual dinner for each boarding house, open to families

Enrolment and Fees

GGS has a non-selective enrolment policy — academic performance is not a barrier to entry. However, demand is high, and early enquiry is recommended for all campuses. Annual fees (approximate) as of recent data: day students around $50,000, boarding students around $85,000, making GGS one of Australia’s most expensive independent schools. Scholarships are available in academics, music, arts, and other areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current Principal of Geelong Grammar School?

Rebecca Cody, who became the 12th Principal in 2018 — the first Australian-born and first female Principal in the school’s history.

Did King Charles III attend Geelong Grammar School?

Yes. King Charles III (then Prince Charles) spent two terms at Geelong Grammar School’s Timbertop campus in 1966.

What is Timbertop?

Timbertop is GGS’s unique Year 9 residential campus near Mansfield in alpine Victoria, where all GGS students spend Year 9 immersed in outdoor and adventure education.

Has the campus structure changed recently?

Yes. Bostock House (GGS’s Newtown primary campus) closed at the end of Term 1, 2026, with students and staff moving to a newly built Junior School at Corio Campus.

Who do I contact for admissions or enrolment?

Contact GGS Admissions at +61 3 5273 9200 or visit ggs.vic.edu.au.

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