"Normanhurst's jump to #4 in 2024 wasn't surprising to us. The school has been building momentum for years, and the smaller community means every boy gets attention and support." — Normanhurst Boys 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.
Normanhurst Boys High School at a Glance
Known as "Normo", Normanhurst Boys High School was 2024's standout performer - jumping from #8 to #4 in NSW, outperforming many traditionally higher-ranked schools. This smaller selective school offers a close-knit community with exceptional results.
Normanhurst Boys Quick Facts
Current statistics
HSC Ranking
Up from #8 (2024)
Year 7 Places
Available annually
Established
Selective from 1999
Band 6 Rate
2024 HSC results
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About Normanhurst Boys High School
School Profile
Essential information
| Official Name | Normanhurst Boys High School | |
| Location | 54-72 Pennant Hills Road, Normanhurst NSW 2076 | |
| Established | 1958 (fully selective 1999) | |
| Type | Fully Selective, Boys Only | |
| Year 7 Intake | 120 students | |
| Total Enrolment | Approximately 730 students | |
| Website | normanhurb-h.schools.nsw.gov.au |
School History & Identity
Normanhurst Boys opened in 1958 and became fully selective in 1999. With approximately 730 students, it's one of the smaller selective schools, creating a distinctive close-knit community where students and teachers know each other well.
The school has a sister school relationship with Hornsby Girls High School, providing opportunities for joint activities while maintaining a single-sex learning environment.
Why Choose Normanhurst Boys
Rising Star Performance
Normanhurst Boys' jump from #8 to #4 in the 2024 HSC rankings was one of the year's most impressive improvements.
2024 HSC Achievements
- #4 in NSW - up 4 positions from 2023
- 55.0% Band 6 rate - significant improvement
- 2 students achieved 99.95 ATAR
- Multiple First in State nominations
Unique Programs & Opportunities
What Sets Normanhurst Boys Apart
- ✓**FIRST Robotics Team** (Team 4739: Normanhurst Nitro) - oldest public school team in Australia still competing
- ✓**NASA and Silicon Valley tours** - overseas industry exposure programs
- ✓**Sister school relationship** with Hornsby Girls for joint activities
- ✓**Smaller community** (~730 students) - more individual attention
- ✓**Strong STEM focus** - robotics, coding, engineering projects
The Robotics Advantage
Normanhurst Boys' FIRST Robotics Competition Team (Team 4739: Normanhurst Nitro) is a distinctive feature:
- Oldest public school team still competing in Australia
- International robotics competitions
- Real-world engineering experience
- Industry mentorship and connections
- Develops teamwork, problem-solving, and technical skills
Smaller School Benefits
With ~730 students (compared to 1,000+ at larger selective schools), Normanhurst offers:
- Closer student-teacher relationships
- More leadership opportunities per student
- Tight-knit brotherhood culture
- Individual attention and support
- Less anonymity - every student is known
HSC Performance
Normanhurst Boys' trajectory shows consistent improvement, culminating in the impressive 2024 results.
Normanhurst Boys HSC Rankings (Recent Years)
Based on Better Education data
| 2024 | #4 in NSW | 55.0% |
| 2023 | #8 in NSW | 46.4% |
| 2022 | #8 in NSW | 46.4% |
| 2021 | #10 in NSW | 49.2% |
The Upward Trajectory
Normanhurst's Improvement
Recent trajectory
Ranking Improvement
Over 4 years
Band 6 Increase
2023 to 2024
Perfect ATARs
99.95 in 2024
What This Means
Normanhurst's improvement demonstrates that HSC results aren't fixed. A school with historically lower entry scores has overtaken several schools with higher entry standards. This suggests exceptional teaching quality and a culture that helps students exceed expectations.
Entry & Competition Level
Moderate-High Competition (Expect Increase)
Historically, Normanhurst has had lower entry scores than top-tier schools. However, the 2024 results will likely increase demand.
Competition Reality
What you're up against
Places Available
Year 7 intake
Historical Score
Out of 300 (pre-2024)
Historical Target
May increase
Competition Trend
Following 2024 results
Expect Increased Competition
Normanhurst's jump to #4 will attract significantly more attention. Historical entry scores around 215-218/300 may no longer be sufficient. Aim for Top 15% performance across all test components.
Value Proposition
Normanhurst represents potentially exceptional value:
- Lower historical entry scores than North Sydney Boys or Sydney Boys
- 2024 HSC results (#4) outperformed both those schools
- Smaller school = more individual attention
- Unique programs (robotics, overseas tours)
For students who might not quite make North Sydney Boys, Normanhurst could deliver equal or better outcomes.
Preference Strategy for Normanhurst Boys
Should Normanhurst Boys Be Your First Preference?
Normanhurst Boys should be Preference 1 if:
- Your son consistently scores in Top 15-20% across practice tests
- You prefer a smaller, close-knit school community
- The Normanhurst location is accessible
- STEM/robotics programs appeal to your son
- You value strong HSC results without the highest entry bar
Strategic Consideration
Strategic Value Play
If your son is a strong but not top-tier candidate (Top 15-20% rather than Top 10%), Normanhurst may offer better outcomes than "reaching" for more competitive schools. The 2024 HSC results show Normanhurst's teaching quality can help students outperform their entry-level peers at other schools.
Recommended Backup Preferences
Strategic Backup Schools
Based on competition level and location
| North Sydney Boys High School | If aiming higher - #1 HSC 2024 | Very High |
| Sydney Boys High School | Boys only, strong traditions, CBD location | High |
| Fort Street High School | Co-ed, historic school, Inner West | Competitive |
| Baulkham Hills High School | Co-ed, strong results, Western Sydney | Very High |
Geographic Considerations
Normanhurst is located on the Upper North Shore:
- Normanhurst Station within walking distance (Northern Line)
- Bus routes along Pennant Hills Road
- Accessible from Hornsby, Epping, North Shore areas
- Approximately 25 minutes from Sydney CBD by train
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Normanhurst jump to #4 in 2024?
Several factors contributed:
- Strong cohort performance
- Effective teaching across all subjects
- Supportive smaller school environment
- Focus on helping every student achieve their potential
- Continuous improvement culture over several years
How does Normanhurst compare to North Sydney Boys?
| Factor | Normanhurst Boys | North Sydney Boys | |--------|------------------|-------------------| | 2024 HSC Rank | #4 | #1 | | Entry Competition | High | Very High | | School Size | ~730 students | ~950 students | | Location | Normanhurst | Crows Nest | | Unique Feature | Robotics program | Support Unit for autism |
North Sydney Boys has higher HSC rankings and entry competition, but Normanhurst offers a smaller community and strong STEM programs.
What is the FIRST Robotics program?
Team 4739: Normanhurst Nitro competes in the FIRST Robotics Competition:
- International robotics competition
- Students design and build competition robots
- Industry mentors guide students
- Develops engineering and teamwork skills
- Oldest public school team still competing in Australia
Is there a relationship with Hornsby Girls?
Yes, Normanhurst Boys and Hornsby Girls are sister schools:
- Joint musical productions and concerts
- Some shared events and activities
- Opportunities for co-educational interaction
- Both schools had excellent 2024 HSC results
Will entry competition increase significantly?
Almost certainly yes. The jump to #4 will attract attention from families who previously focused on other schools. Historical entry standards will likely rise. Prepare accordingly.
What are the NASA/Silicon Valley tours?
Normanhurst offers overseas programs where students visit:
- NASA facilities
- Silicon Valley technology companies
- Industry exposure and career inspiration
- Unique experiences not available at most schools
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 Normanhurst Boys 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 Boys High School - HSC #1
- Sydney Boys High School - Historic boys' school
- Hornsby Girls High School - Sister school
- Baulkham Hills High School - Top co-ed
Have questions about preparing for Normanhurst Boys? Contact our team or explore our Selective School Preparation Program for personalised guidance.
This guide is updated annually. Last reviewed: January 2026.