Pennant Hills High School has a broad curriculum that caters for all levels of ability, but with a strong academic tradition and focus.
Facilities: Two ovals, agriculture plot, three computer rooms, wireless internet access throughout the school, eight science laboratories, multi-purpose centre with stage, two basketball courts sheltered by a large covered outdoor learning area, freestanding library, senior study rooms, specialist rooms for all practical subjects, commercial kitchen for vocational studies, and a performing arts centre. The grounds are spacious, shady and well maintained.
Electives Years 9 and 10: Agriculture; Commerce; Drama; History; French; Japanese; Music. Technical subjects (including Industrial Technology – Wood, Metal and Multimedia; Graphics Technology; Food Technology; Textiles and Design); Visual Arts; Physical Activity and Sports Studies; Drama; and Information Software and Technology are also offered.
Electives Years 11 and 12: Agriculture, Modern History, Ancient History, Society and Culture, all sciences, Business Studies, Community and Family Studies, Drama, Economics, Engineering Studies, all levels of English and Mathematics, Food Technology, French, Japanese, Geography, Legal Studies, Information Processes and Technology, Software Design and Development, Industrial Technology, Textiles and Design, Visual Arts, Music and PDHPE are offered, as are vocational courses such as VET Hospitality Operations.
Sport: Competitive – basketball, volleyball, hockey, cricket, soccer, rugby, European handball, baseball, softball, athletics, cross-country. Leisure – tennis, swimming, ice-skating, fitness, rock climbing, surf life-saving, aerobics, squash.
Curriculum Enrichment Activities: Debating, drama, concert bands and big bands, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, enrichment studies, string ensembles, school musical, RoboCup robotics, overseas student exchange.
Welfare and personal development: A strong student council and prefect body assists in school and student development. Peer support is in operation. Programs such as peer literacy tutoring, Leadership in the Middle School and the Young Endeavour Leadership Award encourage student focus on leadership, personal development and support for their peers. Work experience is arranged for all Year 10 students and for Year 11 students on request. A full-time careers adviser and counsellor are on staff. Pennant Hills has a strict discipline code based on self-discipline and respect for others. School uniform is compulsory.
Famous ex-students: Dr Norman Janu, Dr John O’Donnell, Verity James, Sue Javes, Dr Ken Wishaw, Anthony Ricketts, Lisa Ho, Senator John Faulkner.