"In 2024, every single HSC student at Hornsby Girls appeared on the Distinguished Achievers list. That's not luck - that's a culture of excellence where every student is supported to achieve their best." — Hornsby Girls 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.
Hornsby Girls High School at a Glance
Hornsby Girls High School achieved something remarkable in 2024 - 100% of HSC students appeared on the Distinguished Achievers list, making it the highest-ranked all-girls school in NSW. This outstanding achievement showcases a school where every student reaches their potential.
Hornsby Girls Quick Facts
Current statistics
HSC Ranking
NSW state ranking (2024)
Year 7 Places
Available annually
Established
Nearly a century
Distinguished
All HSC students (2024)
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About Hornsby Girls High School
School Profile
Essential information
| Official Name | Hornsby Girls High School | |
| Location | Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby NSW 2077 | |
| Established | 1930 | |
| Type | Fully Selective, Girls Only | |
| Year 7 Intake | 120 students | |
| Total Enrolment | Approximately 720 students | |
| Website | hornsbygir-h.schools.nsw.gov.au |
School Heritage & Culture
Hornsby Girls' heritage-listed 1930s main building provides a distinctive character, while the student body represents 48 different cultural heritages with 90% from non-English speaking backgrounds. This creates a uniquely diverse and inclusive learning community.
The school has a sister school relationship with Normanhurst Boys High School, providing opportunities for joint activities while maintaining a single-sex learning environment.
Why Choose Hornsby Girls
Standout HSC Achievement
The 2024 HSC results were historic - Hornsby Girls became the highest-ranked all-girls school in NSW with an extraordinary achievement.
2024 HSC Milestone
100% of HSC students (all 123 students) appeared on the Distinguished Achievers list, meaning every single student achieved at least one Band 6 result. No other girls' school in NSW achieved this.
Outstanding Music Program
What Sets Hornsby Girls Apart
- ✓**Exceptional music program** - Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, orchestras
- ✓**100% Distinguished Achievers** in 2024 - every student with at least one Band 6
- ✓**Sister school relationship** with Normanhurst Boys for joint activities
- ✓**International partnerships** - relationships with schools in Japan and Germany
- ✓**Multicultural diversity** - 48 cultural heritages represented
A Smaller, Supportive Community
With approximately 720 students, Hornsby Girls is smaller than many selective schools. This creates:
- Closer relationships between students and teachers
- More leadership opportunities per student
- Tight-knit community feel
- Individual attention and support
HSC Performance
Hornsby Girls' 2024 results represent a significant improvement, elevating the school to new heights.
Hornsby Girls HSC Rankings (Recent Years)
Based on Better Education data
| 2024 | #7 in NSW | 52.0% |
| 2023 | #14 in NSW | 41.8% |
| 2022 | #9 in NSW | 46.0% |
| 2021 | #8 in NSW | 51.0% |
What "100% Distinguished Achievers" Means
This achievement means every single Year 12 student in 2024 earned at least one Band 6 (90%+) in their HSC subjects. This demonstrates:
- Exceptional teaching across ALL subjects
- No student "left behind" - everyone achieves excellence
- A culture where high standards are the baseline
- Support systems that work for every student
Rising Star
Hornsby Girls jumped from #14 (2023) to #7 (2024) - a remarkable 7-position improvement. This upward trajectory, combined with the 100% Distinguished Achievers milestone, suggests a school on the rise.
Entry & Competition Level
High Competition (Expect Increase)
Following the outstanding 2024 results, expect competition for Hornsby Girls to increase.
Competition Reality
What you're up against
Places Available
Year 7 intake
Among Girls Schools
For entry competition
Historical Range
Out of 300
Target Band
For competitive candidacy
Expect Increased Competition
Following the 2024 HSC results (highest-ranked girls' school), demand for Hornsby Girls is likely to increase. Historical entry scores may no longer be sufficient. Aim for Top 10-15% performance across all test components.
Profile of Successful Applicants
What Successful Hornsby Girls Applicants Demonstrate
- ✓Strong, consistent performance across all four test components
- ✓Excellent reading comprehension and writing skills
- ✓Good logical reasoning abilities
- ✓Interest in a supportive, close-knit school community
- ✓Often have musical interests or aptitude
Preference Strategy for Hornsby Girls
Should Hornsby Girls Be Your First Preference?
Hornsby Girls should be Preference 1 if:
- Your daughter consistently scores in Top 10-15% across practice tests
- You prefer a girls-only educational environment
- The Hornsby location is accessible for your family
- You value a smaller, close-knit school community
- The music program appeals to your daughter
Recommended Backup Preferences
Strategic Backup Schools
Based on competition level and location
| North Sydney Girls High School | Girls only, strong music, North Shore | Very High |
| Sydney Girls High School | Girls only, historic school, inner city | High |
| Normanhurst Boys HS (brothers) | If also have a son - sister school | High |
| Baulkham Hills High School | Co-ed alternative if flexible | Very High |
Geographic Considerations
Hornsby Girls is located in Hornsby, in Sydney's Upper North Shore:
- Hornsby Station nearby (major rail hub)
- Accessible from Northern Line, Central Coast Line
- Bus services throughout the Hornsby area
- Convenient for Upper North Shore and Northern Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Hornsby Girls compare to North Sydney Girls?
Both are excellent girls-only selective schools:
- Hornsby Girls: 2024's highest-ranked girls' school, 100% Distinguished Achievers, smaller (720 students), Hornsby location
- North Sydney Girls: Strong music program, larger school, Crows Nest location Both have outstanding music programs. Choose based on location and school size preference.
What does "100% Distinguished Achievers" actually mean?
The Distinguished Achievers list includes any student who achieves a Band 6 (90%+) in any HSC course. Hornsby Girls achieving 100% means every single HSC student earned at least one Band 6 - demonstrating excellence across the entire cohort, not just top performers.
What is the relationship with Normanhurst Boys?
Hornsby Girls and Normanhurst Boys are sister schools. This means:
- Joint musical productions and concerts
- Some shared events and activities
- Opportunities for co-educational interaction
- Similar school cultures and values
However, they remain separate schools with separate admissions.
How strong is the music program?
Hornsby Girls has an exceptional music program featuring:
- Concert Band and Symphonic Band
- Jazz Band
- Multiple orchestras and chamber groups
- Regular performances and competitions
- Joint productions with Normanhurst Boys Students don't need prior musical experience to participate.
What makes the school culture distinctive?
Hornsby Girls' culture emphasizes:
- Every student matters - the 100% Distinguished Achievers shows no one is left behind
- Diverse community - 48 cultural heritages represented
- Smaller school - closer relationships, more individual attention
- Supportive environment - emphasis on wellbeing alongside achievement
Will competition increase after the 2024 results?
Almost certainly yes. The 2024 HSC results - #7 overall and highest-ranked girls' school - will attract more attention. Families should prepare for higher entry standards than historical data suggests.
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 Hornsby Girls 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:
- North Sydney Girls High School - Top selective girls' school
- Sydney Girls High School - Historic girls' school
- Normanhurst Boys High School - Sister school
- James Ruse Agricultural High School - Top co-ed
Have questions about preparing for Hornsby Girls? Contact our team or explore our Selective School Preparation Program for personalised guidance.
This guide is updated annually. Last reviewed: January 2026.