In a significant shift that has sparked both anticipation and controversy, Freshwater Senior Campus is set to expand its enrolment to include students from Years 7 through 12, transitioning from its current status as a senior-only institution catering to Years 11 and 12.
This change is scheduled to commence in Term 1, 2026, with the campus becoming a fully comprehensive Year 7–12 school by 2027.
The decision follows extensive community consultations conducted by the NSW Department of Education in August and September 2024. Feedback indicated strong support for increased co-educational options in the area, with 74% of early childhood parents and 68% of primary school parents expressing a preference for co-educational high school settings.
Among several proposals, the expansion of Freshwater Senior Campus to a Year 7–12 co-educational institution emerged as the most favoured option. Alternative suggestions, such as converting single-sex schools like Mackellar Girls and Balgowlah Boys into co-educational campuses, did not receive majority support and will not proceed.
By Term 1, 2027, the campus will operate as a fully comprehensive Year 7–12 co-educational high school. To accommodate the increased student population, NSW has committed to delivering upgraded facilities at the campus.
While the expansion aims to provide guaranteed access to co-educational schooling and reduce travel times for many families, it has sparked a range of reactions within the community.
Some parents and students have expressed concerns about the potential impact on existing single-sex schools and the overall quality of education. Discussions have highlighted the need to balance tradition with the evolving preferences of the community.
The expansion of Freshwater Senior Campus is expected to offer students access to a broader curriculum, enhanced resource sharing, and improved social interactions. These changes aim to better prepare students for future learning and work environments.
The NSW Department of Education has stated that features of the current senior school that best support senior students will be retained during the transition.
As the transition approaches, the Department of Education plans to provide regular updates on the progress of the project. Parents, students, and community members are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and participate in ongoing discussions to ensure a smooth implementation of the new structure.
Published 27-Dec-2024
