"Girraween proves you don't need to travel to the North Shore for an excellent selective education. The 100% tertiary progression rate speaks for itself." — Girraween Parent
Guide Last Updated: January 2026
This guide is regularly updated with the latest HSC results, entry information, and school data. All statistics reflect the most recent available data.
Girraween High School at a Glance
Girraween High School is Western Sydney's premier selective school, ranked as the 5th best public high school in Australia by News Corp. With a 100% tertiary progression rate and strong competition ties with James Ruse, Girraween offers top-tier selective education in Western Sydney.
Girraween Quick Facts
Current statistics
HSC Ranking
NSW state ranking (2024)
Year 7 Places
Available annually
Established
Selective from 1989
Tertiary Rate
University progression
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About Girraween High School
School Profile
Essential information
| Official Name | Girraween High School | |
| Location | 110 Gilba Road, Girraween NSW 2145 | |
| Established | 1976 (selective from 1989) | |
| Type | Fully Selective, Co-educational | |
| Year 7 Intake | 120 students | |
| Total Enrolment | Approximately 720 students | |
| Website | girraween-h.schools.nsw.gov.au |
School Identity
Girraween's motto "Mens Conscia Recti" (Mind aware of right) guides a school culture focused on integrity alongside academic achievement. The school became fully selective in 1989 and has established itself as Western Sydney's flagship selective school.
Why Choose Girraween
100% Tertiary Progression
Girraween's standout statistic is its 100% tertiary progression rate - every single graduate continues to higher education.
University Outcomes
- 100% of graduates proceed to tertiary education
- Strong representation in competitive courses (medicine, law, engineering)
- Named 5th best public high school in Australia by News Corp
- Excellent preparation for university-level study
Distinctive Programs
What Sets Girraween Apart
- ✓**Quad Schools Tournament** - competition with James Ruse, Baulkham Hills, Penrith High
- ✓**Sister school relationship** with Hisai High School in Japan
- ✓**100% tertiary progression** - every graduate continues to university
- ✓**Western Sydney location** - avoiding long commutes for local families
- ✓**Smaller school community** (~720 students) - individual attention
Quad Schools Competition
Girraween is part of the prestigious Quad Schools Tournament alongside:
- James Ruse Agricultural High School
- Baulkham Hills High School
- Penrith Selective High School
This provides regular competition and collaboration with peer schools, including sporting events, academic challenges, and cultural activities.
Western Sydney Advantage
For Western Sydney families, Girraween offers:
- No long commutes to North Shore or CBD
- Local community connections
- Accessible location near Toongabbie
- Understanding of Western Sydney student needs
HSC Performance
Girraween's HSC results are solid, though the school has seen some year-to-year variation.
Girraween HSC Rankings (Recent Years)
Based on Better Education data
| 2024 | ~#32 in NSW | 35.1% |
| 2023 | #32 in NSW | 32.5% |
| 2022 | #29 in NSW | 33.3% |
| 2021 | #19 in NSW | 39.4% |
University Outcomes Trump Rankings
What Matters Most
While Girraween's HSC ranking (~32) is lower than some other selective schools, the 100% tertiary progression rate demonstrates that every student achieves outcomes that prepare them for university success. Rankings don't capture the full picture of educational quality.
For perspective:
- Ranking ~32 still places Girraween in the top 5% of NSW schools
- Every graduate continues to tertiary education
- Students gain entry to competitive university courses
- Strong preparation for post-school pathways
Entry & Competition Level
Competitive Entry (Western Sydney Focus)
Girraween is competitive for entry, particularly among Western Sydney families. Entry is generally more accessible than top-tier schools like James Ruse or Baulkham Hills.
Competition Reality
What you're up against
Places Available
Year 7 intake
Historical Score
Out of 300 (2021 data)
Target Band
For competitive candidacy
Student Base
Primarily Western Sydney
Entry Reality
Historical entry scores around 220/300 (approximately 73%) were competitive. Students should aim for Top 20% performance across test components. Entry is more accessible than James Ruse or Baulkham Hills, making Girraween an excellent choice for strong Western Sydney candidates.
Profile of Successful Applicants
What Successful Girraween Applicants Demonstrate
- ✓Strong, consistent performance across all four test components
- ✓Solid mathematical reasoning skills
- ✓Good reading comprehension and writing abilities
- ✓Often from Western Sydney primary schools
- ✓Interest in a co-educational selective environment
Preference Strategy for Girraween
Should Girraween Be Your First Preference?
Girraween should be Preference 1 if:
- Your child consistently scores in Top 20% across practice tests
- You live in Western Sydney and want to avoid long commutes
- You value the 100% tertiary progression outcome
- You prefer a co-educational environment
- The Quad Schools culture appeals to your family
Girraween vs Baulkham Hills
For Western Sydney families, the choice between Girraween and Baulkham Hills is common:
| Factor | Girraween | Baulkham Hills | |--------|-----------|----------------| | Recent HSC Rank | ~32 | #6 | | Entry Competition | High | Very High | | School Size | ~720 students | ~1,200 students | | Location | Girraween | Baulkham Hills | | Tertiary Rate | 100% | ~88% (ATAR 90+) |
If aiming for Baulkham Hills seems like a stretch, Girraween offers excellent outcomes with more achievable entry.
Recommended Backup Preferences
Strategic Preferences for Western Sydney
Based on competition level and location
| Baulkham Hills High School | If aiming higher - top co-ed school | Very High |
| Girraween High School | Western Sydney premier selective | High |
| Penrith Selective High School | Western Sydney alternative | Competitive |
| Fort Street High School | Inner West co-ed alternative | Competitive |
Geographic Considerations
Girraween is located in Girraween (Western Sydney):
- Near Toongabbie Station (Western Line)
- Bus services along key routes
- Central to Parramatta region
- Accessible from across Western Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Girraween compare to Baulkham Hills?
Both are co-educational selective schools in Western Sydney:
- Baulkham Hills: Higher HSC ranking (#6), more competitive entry, larger school
- Girraween: Lower entry threshold, smaller community, 100% tertiary progression For students who might not quite make Baulkham Hills, Girraween offers excellent outcomes with more achievable entry.
What is the Quad Schools Tournament?
Girraween participates in regular competition with three peer schools:
- James Ruse Agricultural High School
- Baulkham Hills High School
- Penrith Selective High School
Activities include sporting competitions, academic challenges, debating, and cultural events. This creates a competitive spirit and connections with peer schools.
How significant is the 100% tertiary progression rate?
Very significant. It means:
- Every single graduate continues to higher education
- No student is "left behind" or fails to progress
- The school prepares everyone for post-school success
- Strong university placement outcomes
Is there a relationship with the Japanese school?
Yes, Girraween has a sister school relationship with Hisai High School in Japan. This provides:
- Cultural exchange opportunities
- International perspective
- Possible exchange programs
- Language learning connections
Why doesn't Girraween rank higher in HSC results?
Several factors:
- Lower entry scores mean students start from a different baseline than top-tier schools
- Focus on well-rounded education, not just HSC results
- ~32 ranking still represents top 5% of NSW schools
- 100% tertiary progression shows actual outcomes are excellent
What extracurricular activities are available?
Girraween offers:
- Quad Schools sporting competition
- Music ensembles and performances
- Debating and public speaking
- Academic competitions and Olympiads
- Cultural clubs and community service
- Japanese cultural exchange activities
Test Preparation & Next Steps
For comprehensive information about the selective test format, the 4 components, preparation timeline, and common mistakes to avoid, see our Complete NSW Selective School Entry Guide.
Preparation Resources
Start your Girraween journey
Complete NSW Selective Entry Guide
Everything about the test format, 4 components, preparation timeline, and strategies
Access ResourceFree Diagnostic Assessment
Identify your child's current level across all 4 test components
Access ResourceSelective School Preparation Course
Comprehensive program with 10,000+ practice questions and expert coaching
Access ResourceRelated School Guides
Considering other selective schools? Explore our guides:
- Baulkham Hills High School - Top Western Sydney co-ed
- James Ruse Agricultural High School - Most competitive
- Fort Street High School - Inner West co-ed
- Normanhurst Boys High School - Rising star
Have questions about preparing for Girraween? Contact our team or explore our Selective School Preparation Program for personalised guidance.
This guide is updated annually. Last reviewed: January 2026.