German International School Sydney and The King's School are both in Sydney, about 21 km apart. Both schools offer Australian and IB programmes, and German International School Sydney also offers German. Published annual fees are A$1,655 - 19,762 at German International School Sydney and A$5,300 - 49,980 at The King's School, which puts The King's School roughly 158% higher. German International School Sydney takes pupils from 0 to 18, and The King's School from 4 to 18. The King's School is the larger school, with around 2,157 pupils to German International School Sydney's 430.
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German International School Sydney
Sydney, Australia
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The King's School
Sydney, Australia
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year A$1,655 - 19,762 | Fees / year A$5,300 - 49,980 |
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Age range
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Age range 0 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding), Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Australian Curriculum, German Curriculum, IB (DP) | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 430 | Pupils 2,157 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size 9 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English, German | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1989 | Opened 1831 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
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Location
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Location 33 Myoora Road, Terrey Hills, NSW 2084, Australia. Terrey Hills is a leafy suburb on Sydney's Northern Beaches. The campus is connected by four GISS-operated private bus routes and by government public buses; booking is via RollCall and real-time tracking is available. The school sits within the Deutsche Auslandsschule network of German Schools Abroad. | Location The King's School is located at 87-129 Pennant Hills Road, North Parramatta, NSW 2151, Australia. The main Parramatta campus serves Pre-K to Year 12, and the Preparatory School is set within 320 acres of native Australian bushland. Tudor House is the Southern Highlands campus catering for girls and boys. |
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Stages
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Stages Preschool; Primary School; Junior Secondary; Senior School (IBDP). | Stages Pre-K to Year 12 |
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School type
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School type Private day school; co-educational; bilingual in English and German; offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in Years 11–12. | School type Independent school; specialists in boys' education; boarding is central to School life. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix 440 students; 38 nationalities; 42 languages; about half from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other countries, and the other half from Australia. | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support GISS has a Learning Diversity Team that supports teachers and students with diverse learning needs; it plans, implements and monitors personalised adjustments and collaborates with parents and external professionals as needed; it aims to build teacher capacity to ensure inclusive learning. | Additional learning support — |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Germany-affiliated; part of the Deutsche Auslandsschule (German Schools Abroad) network sponsored by ZfA. | Country affiliation Australia |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation Christian |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure — |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details GISS operates four private bus routes across Sydney; bus bookings use RollCall; pricing is zone-based (Zone 1: pre-booked $9.50, casual $13.00; Zone 2: pre-booked $10.50, casual $15.00). For enquiries, bus@giss.nsw.edu.au. | Bus service details King's operates 13 daily and two weekly bus services. Pick-up and drop-off occur at the School turning circle for Prep and Senior campuses. The services have fixed timetables and routes, with fixed cost per term, and use fully air-conditioned buses with a regular driver. Public transport options are available, and a School Opal card can be used for non-King's buses or trains. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Application fee (non‑refundable): AUD 250 per application. - Enrolment fee (Kindergarten to IB, non‑refundable): AUD 1,250 per child. - Preschool enrolment fee: AUD 500 per child. - Security deposit (refundable, non‑interest bearing): AUD 1,000 per child. - One‑off capital levy (not applicable to short‑term and overseas students): AUD 1,500 per family. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term) - Kindergarten: Annual tuition AUD 15,362 — Per term (4 terms per year): AUD 3,840.50. - Years 1–4: Annual tuition AUD 17,221 — Per term: AUD 4,305.25. - Years 5–6: Annual tuition AUD 18,396 — Per term: AUD 4,599.00. - Years 7–8: Annual tuition AUD 18,570 — Per term: AUD 4,642.50. - Years 9–10: Annual tuition AUD 18,746 — Per term: AUD 4,686.50. - International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 11: Annual tuition AUD 32,653 — Per term: AUD 8,163.25. - IB Year 12: Annual tuition AUD 31,569 — Per term: AUD 7,892.25. Preschool daily rates and funding - Preschool daily rates by number of days and age (2026 rates): - 2 days: Age 3–4 years AUD 147 per day; Age 4+ years AUD 142 per day. - 3 days: Age 3–4 years AUD 135 per day; Age 4+ years AUD 130 per day. - 4–5 days: Age 3–4 years AUD 125 per day; Age 4+ years AUD 118 per day. - Start Strong (government) fee relief applies for eligible children; maximum relief levels and eligibility categories apply. Additional levies and common extra costs - Resource Levy (Kindergarten to Year 6): AUD 400 per student per annum. - Resource Levy (Years 7–12): AUD 350 per student per annum. - Book hire fee (Years 5–10): AUD 250 per student per annum; replacement charges apply for books not returned or returned in unsatisfactory condition. - IB‑specific additional fees: Books for the IB cohort are included in tuition; IB Pamoja fees (subject dependent) are invoiced separately (approx. USD 1,655 where applicable); IB exam retake, enquiry and tutor fees may apply and vary. - Class camps (estimated top cost per student): Years 3 & 4 AUD 620; Years 5 & 6 AUD 890; Year 7 AUD 820; Years 8 & 9 AUD 990; Year 10 AUD 800; Year 11 CAS trip AUD 2,200. - Short‑term & overseas students levy (pro‑rata & per student): AUD 5,000 for short‑term (enrolled less than one year) and overseas students on a student visa. - Bus service fees are charged separately under the school's Bus Fees and Transportation Terms & Conditions. Billing schedule and payment terms - School year runs on a four‑term calendar; tuition amounts above are annual and the school issues invoices for the school year. Per‑term payment calculations above assume four terms. - Fees are payable by the due date shown on the invoice. The last day for payment of fees in any term is the first day of that term. Failure to pay may trigger administrative late fees or restrictions on attendance and academic reports. Payment methods, plans and surcharges - Preferred payment method: payment in full by the first day of school via the FACTS portal (online) using the FACTS Payment Plan option ‘PAY IN FULL'. - Instalment options via the FACTS tuition management portal are available: semester, quarterly or monthly plans. Surcharges on the invoiced amount apply by plan: - Pay per semester: additional 2.5% of invoiced amount. - Pay quarterly: additional 3.5% of invoiced amount. - Pay monthly: additional 4.0% of invoiced amount. Monthly plans incur a one‑off annual FACTS fee of AUD 59 and must be set up with direct debit. - Payment methods accepted via the payment plans: direct debit from a bank account, Visa, MasterCard and American Express. A 1.1% transaction fee applies to all credit card transactions. - If the full yearly fees are not received by 1 February 2026 or two weeks after an invoice is issued, the school will automatically place the family on a 4% surcharge unless otherwise requested in writing; unpaid months will be prorated. Discounts, late fees and non‑payment - Sibling discounts on tuition fees only: first sibling receives a 10% discount; each subsequent sibling receives a 20% discount. - Late payment administration fee: AUD 50 per student per calendar month may apply if payment is not received by the due date. The school may restrict class attendance, withhold academic reports, and pursue collection action for debts more than 90 days overdue. Withdrawal, extended leave and refund information - Minimum notice to withdraw a student: one full term's written notice to the Principal. The school is entitled to charge full tuition fees during the notice period. Parents are not entitled to a refund of a term's school fees where a student is withdrawn at any time during that term. - Extended leave of absence (approved by the Principal for at least one term) incurs a holding fee of 15% in lieu of tuition fees; the holding fee is non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Other practical notes on fees - GISS fees and levies typically include one excursion per term, student accident insurance, technology access and copyright fees; consumables and personal stationery (e.g., calculators) and extraordinary project materials may incur additional charges. - Families billed by an employer should use the school's company/third‑party billing procedures. (End of fees overview.) | Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Registration fee: AUD 300 per student (non-refundable). - Student Enrolment fee: AUD 5,000 per student (non-refundable and non-transferable), payable at the time of enrolment. Tuition fees (day students) — amounts shown as Yearly / 10 monthly instalments / Termly (Terms 1–4 unless noted) - Pre-Kindergarten: AUD 30,980 / AUD 3,098 / AUD 7,745. - Kindergarten: AUD 30,980 / AUD 3,098 / AUD 7,745. - Year 1: AUD 32,460 / AUD 3,246 / AUD 8,115. - Year 2: AUD 32,460 / AUD 3,246 / AUD 8,115. - Year 3: AUD 35,980 / AUD 3,598 / AUD 8,995. - Year 4: AUD 35,980 / AUD 3,598 / AUD 8,995. - Year 5: AUD 42,440 / AUD 4,244 / AUD 10,610. - Year 6: AUD 42,440 / AUD 4,244 / AUD 10,610. - Year 7: AUD 46,640 / AUD 4,664 / AUD 11,660. - Year 8: AUD 46,640 / AUD 4,664 / AUD 11,660. - Year 9: AUD 47,180 / AUD 4,718 / AUD 11,795. - Year 10: AUD 47,180 / AUD 4,718 / AUD 11,795. - Year 11: AUD 49,980 / AUD 4,998 / AUD 12,495. - Year 12: AUD 49,980 / AUD 4,998 / AUD 16,660 (Year 12 tuition is billed over three terms: Term 1, Term 2 and Term 3). Boarding fees — amounts shown as Yearly / 10 monthly instalments / Termly - Year 7: AUD 35,840 / AUD 3,584 / AUD 8,960. - Year 8: AUD 35,840 / AUD 3,584 / AUD 8,960. - Year 9: AUD 39,200 / AUD 3,920 / AUD 9,800. - Year 10: AUD 39,200 / AUD 3,920 / AUD 9,800. - Year 11: AUD 40,080 / AUD 4,008 / AUD 10,020. - Year 12: AUD 38,370 / AUD 3,837 / AUD 12,790 (Year 12 boarding fees are billed over three terms: Term 1, Term 2 and Term 3). Additional and recurring costs - Digital textbooks (Box of Books): Years 7–10: AUD 294 per year (including GST), billed at the beginning of Term 1; Years 11–12 depend on subject choices and are billed at the beginning of Term 2 where applicable. - Technology fee (Laptop Program): Years 7–10: AUD 461 per term / AUD 1,844 per year. Devices must be purchased through the School's portal; optional insurance available for an additional fee. - VET subject charges (Years 11–12): charged separately depending on subject; may attract government rebates. - Day-boy lunch option: Years 7–11: AUD 600 per term / AUD 2,400 per year; Year 12: AUD 600 per term / AUD 1,800 per year. Pre-K to Year 6 may order and pay for lunch via portal. - Camps, excursions and subject-related charges: camps (Years 5–6 and other compulsory camps) and excursions are charged separately; parents are advised of final costs and these are typically included on term invoices. - Music and other co-curricular activities: charged separately as advised for each activity. - Bus services (King's-operated): AUD 529 per term (Kindergarten–Year 12). - Uniform initial cost (full regulation uniform including sports uniform): approximately AUD 2,150. - Cadet Corps uniform (approximate initial cost): AUD 375 (Year 8). - Occasional boarding (up to three nights per week): AUD 180 per day. - Excursion and Amenities Levy for Pre-K to Year 6: charged in the first invoice of the school year; does not cover overnight camps. - Sibling discounts: Tuition fees: 10% concession for younger brother(s); Boarding fees: 15% concession for second boarder and 30% for third and subsequent boarders. Sibling concessions do not apply to a child holding a Scholarship or other remission. Billing schedule and payment terms - Termly payment: fees are due and payable in full two weeks prior to the first day of each term. - Direct debit instalments: eligible parents may apply to pay by regular direct debit instalments; eligibility requires accounts to be up to date. Ten monthly direct debit billing runs February–November. - Invoicing: the School issues invoices for termly payments; all fees are shown and billed in Australian dollars (AUD) only. The School does not accept cash for fee payments. - Late payment: a default charge of AUD 250 per term applies to fees not paid within 21 days of rendering the account. Students with outstanding fees may be prevented from commencing a new term or participating in discretionary activities. - Withdrawal notice: at least one full term's written notice is required to terminate enrolment. If the required notice is not given, a term's fees (tuition and boarding where applicable) are immediately payable. Refunds and fee changes - Refund policy: payments made to the School are not refundable. - Fee variation: the School may change fees and charges from time to time, generally providing parents one term's notice of any variation. Accepted payment methods and options - Accepted payment channels: online payments via the School's payment portal / QuickWeb and via direct debit. Credit card payments (MasterCard, Visa or American Express) attract a surcharge based on the fee charged to the School (a stated example surcharge is 1.3% where applicable). BPAY payments do not attract an additional charge. The School accepts payments in AUD only. - Extended payment options: the School offers an extended payment facility in partnership with Edstart to spread payments over a longer period; applications are made via Edstart. Notes on inclusions and GST - Tuition fees generally include the majority of academic, extra- and co-curricular activities; separate charges apply for items such as technology, textbooks, stationery, excursions, camps and certain VET subjects. GST is generally not applied to educational tuition but may apply to specific goods and services (for example, the food component of boarding fees). |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements Boarding is the heart of The King's School. Boarders live on campus across purpose-built houses. Five boarding houses are available at the Parramatta campus for Years 7–12: Baker Hake, Bishop Barker Harris, Broughton Forrest, Gowan Brae (Year 7) and Macarthur Waddy; Medley House (Years 3–6) is the Southern Highlands boarding house. The school offers Full Boarding, Casual Boarding (subject to availability) and International Boarding. Tudor House provides primary boarding for Years 3–6, supporting a transition to Year 7; boarders join Gowan Brae in Year 7 and move to senior boarding houses in Year 8. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement There is no school uniform requirement. Dress code and Sunsmart guidelines apply, including hats for outdoor wear and safety-related clothing rules. | Uniform requirement The uniform is worn year-round and is referred to as Number 1 Uniform and Half Blues. The Number 1 uniform comprises Uniform Grey Coat, white shirt, black tie, navy trousers, black belt, black socks, and black lace-up leather shoes, with a navy jumper worn in Terms 2 and 3 and on cooler days. A navy cap or bucket hat is worn for sun protection. A prescriptive Crest bag and sports bag are required. The PE/Sport Uniform consists of a navy crested polo top, navy crested shorts, navy crested track jacket and track pants, with white socks and trainers; separate sport uniforms apply for each sport. Hair should be neatly groomed; jewellery is limited; there is no Summer/Winter uniform. |
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Food options
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Food options After School Care includes afternoon tea. Vacation Care includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. | Food options The King's School provides on-campus dining facilities as part of campus life, including on-site dining as depicted in the Boarding section of the site. |
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House system
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House system The school has a house system with named houses: Grimm House; Elisabeth Selbert House; Paul Klee House; Gutenberg House; Albert Einstein House; Ludwig Leichhardt House; Clara Schumann House; Sophie Scholl House; Pestalozzi House. Marlene Dietrich Hall is a sports facility on campus. | House system Boarding houses at the Parramatta campus for Years 7–12 are Baker Hake, Bishop Barker Harris, Broughton Forrest, Gowan Brae (Year 7) and Macarthur Waddy. Medley House is the Southern Highlands boarding house for Years 3–6. Tudor House provides primary boarding for Years 3–6; boarders transition from Tudor House to Gowan Brae in Year 7 and to senior boarding houses from Year 8. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is an Australian public company limited by guarantee, registered as German School Johannes Gutenberg (ACN 003 484 204). The Board of Directors is elected by the members and oversees the school's governance and performance; all board work is voluntary. | Governance and ownership The King's School is governed by the Council of The King's School, with the Archbishop of Sydney serving as President. The majority of Council members are appointed by the Anglican Church Diocese of Sydney, and some Council members are appointed by the Old Boys' Union. The School Executive provides overarching governance across the Senior School, Preparatory School and Tudor House. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The school provides a complete education in a co-educational and bilingual environment. An intensive language immersion programme leads to bilingual competency in English and German, so students do not need to be familiar with German language beforehand. The curriculum is broad and supports personal development for life after school. In Years 11 and 12 the school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). | Curriculum details The Preparatory School uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) to deliver the NSW curriculum with a global emphasis. Learning unfolds through six Units of Inquiry that integrate Science, History and Geography, the Arts, Mandarin and Physical Education in authentic contexts. Specialist classes include Music, Visual Arts, Woodwork, Physical Education, Biblical Studies, Mandarin and STEM. Educational Support Services provide targeted assistance, and the Enrichment & Extension Program supports gifted and talented students through one-on-one or small-group instruction, with opportunities to engage in external competitions such as the da Vinci Decathlon, Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and Write a Book in a Day. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning, character development and a holistic approach to education. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results November 2025 IB graduates achieved a pass rate of 93.75% and an average score of 31.5 points. They exceeded the global IB average of 29.3 points. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression Graduates continue their academic journeys at universities across Australia and around the world. | Higher education progression The King's School supports graduates into universities and tertiary institutions in Australia and abroad through Global Tertiary Pathways, with high academic results guiding entry to commendable universities. The school hosts SAT testing as an accredited international test centre and offers the SAT Suite (PSAT8/9, PSAT10, PSAT/NMSQT) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams as part of its higher-education pathway, with registration and testing coordinated through the US College Board. Cambridge and Oxford admissions tests information is also provided for select courses. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented GISS Learning Diversity Team includes support for gifted and talented students. | Gifted and talented Gifted and talented students are supported through the Enrichment & Extension Program, with a specialised Extension and Enrichment teacher delivering differentiated instruction and rigorous challenges; identified students may participate in external competitions such as the da Vinci Decathlon, Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and Write a Book in a Day. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning — | Social & emotional learning King's fosters a warm, inclusive community where students feel supported and connected to peers, staff and families. The King's Community is a diverse network including boarders, parents and Old Boys, creating social and emotional support and belonging. Boarding is central to school life and helps students develop independence, resilience and lasting friendships. The school emphasizes staying connected with families through events and participation in drama, arts and sport, reinforcing a sense of belonging across the King's community. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) — | Special educational needs (SEN) The School is committed to meeting the individual learning and other needs of its students, including students with disabilities. Enrollment will only proceed if the School can meet the student's needs with reasonable adjustments; it may refuse enrollment if it cannot meet needs, or if adjustments would impose unjustifiable hardship. The School may review enrolment from time to time and may cancel enrollment if it can no longer meet the student's needs, even with adjustments. Sons of Old Boys have priority entry, subject to meeting the academic and co-curricular requirements. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language — | English as an additional language The King's School supports international students with English language considerations. International students must meet English language proficiency requirements; for Tudor House Years 3-6, simple spoken and written English is expected; for Years 7-11 AEAS testing is required with benchmarks (Year 7 AEAS 70%, Years 8-9 75%, Year 10 80%, Year 11 85%). The school conducts orientation for new international students, and publishes international student handbooks and policies; ESOS framework governs international student matters. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing — | Mental wellbeing Pastoral Care assists students to develop a sense of belonging and promotes their wellbeing. The King's Community fosters belonging and supportive engagement across boarders, parents and staff. Boarding is central to school life, helping students develop independence and resilience and form lifelong friendships. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding — | Safeguarding The King's School is committed to a child safe culture in which the safety, wellbeing and participation of students are paramount. Safeguarding the interests, dignity and rights of students is achieved through NSW Child Safe Standards. The School has zero tolerance for child abuse. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Terrey Hills campus spans 16,200 square metres and comprises 10 buildings. Since moving to Terrey Hills in August 2008, the school has expanded with new classrooms in 2018 and 2022 that meet the eco-friendly Passivhaus standard. The campus contains a central lobby, administration offices and a library surrounding learning spaces. Enhanced learning spaces include air-conditioned classrooms and a wireless network, with laptops available for younger students and BYOD from Year 7 onward. Environmentally friendly features include rainwater harvesting, waterless urinals and a 10 kW solar installation powering part of the campus. | Facilities overview King's offers nearly 480 acres of space for students to explore, live and grow. It features extensive outdoor spaces and a wide range of sporting facilities, including 17 ovals and playing fields and multiple tennis courts and cricket nets. The school supports learning with immersive centres for learning, science, performing arts, music and design, plus a fully-equipped Music Centre, a 350-seat King's Theatre and a Drama Centre. Boarding houses, dining facilities and other campus spaces contribute to a holistic school environment. The King's School combines extensive space with purpose-built teaching and learning spaces to foster curiosity and collaboration. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Key sports facilities include an Indoor Sports Hall, mostly underground, with a stage and capacity for performances and assemblies of up to 400 people. A covered Outdoor Multisports Field was added in 2015. The school also uses the neighbouring Terrey Hills Swim School for parts of its physical education program. Varied outdoor play areas with sun covers support outdoor activities. | Sports facilities Sport and physical activities are central to development, and King's offers an unrivalled range of facilities to meet every sporting requirement. The facilities include a fully-equipped Sports Centre with indoor basketball courts and weights room; a 50-metre competition-standard swimming pool and a 25-metre heated outdoor pool; 17 ovals and playing fields including the renowned JS White Oval; outdoor basketball courts; tennis courts; cricket nets; a rowing shed; and a large community Pavilion. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The campus comprises 10 buildings that accommodate Preschool, Primary, Junior Secondary and Senior School (IBDP). Specialist rooms for science, arts and music, plus an IB Study Centre, are on site and the library is centrally located. In 2018 and 2022 the school extended with new classrooms built to the passive house standard. In October 2017 classrooms were retrofitted with air conditioning, and from Year 7 onwards students bring their own laptops with a wireless network available in every classroom. | Academic facilities Teaching is central to King's. Immersive learning spaces and plentiful resources offer every opportunity to explore, inquire and develop. Centres for learning, science, performing arts, music and design support a range of informal and formal learning zones. A Science Centre and a Science Laboratory are part of the academic facilities, and music and performing spaces include a fully-equipped Music Centre, King's Theatre (350 seats) and a Drama Centre with a Black Box Theatre, Green Room, changing areas and storage facilities. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities After School & Vacation Care is provided through Extend, offering after-school care for Kindergarten to Year 6 and Vacation Care with daytime programs and activities such as science, cooking and sport; sessions run after school and during holidays and are located in the Elisabeth Selbert Building next to the library. Extend's ASC hours are Monday to Friday from 3:15 pm to 6:00 pm for Kindergarten to Year 6, with Vacation Care from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. GISS Football Academy offers football training in partnership with Borussia Dortmund (BVB), with weekly sessions and an introductory package available for term participation. | Extra curricular facilities Music and performing have been integral to King's life since its inception in 1832 and remain central to student life. Boys participate in numerous musical programs and performances, sing in the Chapel and take part in drama productions and plays. To support these activities we provide an extensive range of music and performance facilities including a fully-equipped Music Centre, the King's Theatre (350 seats) and a Drama Centre with a Black Box Theatre, Green Room, changing areas and storage facilities. Sport plays a central role, with a fully-equipped Sports Centre, a 50-metre pool, 17 playing fields including JS White Oval, outdoor courts and a rowing shed. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History The school began on February 7, 1989 as the German School Johannes Gutenberg in Prospect and moved to Ryde in January 1992, with Preschool opening in 1993. In 2002 it adopted the trading name German International School Sydney and acquired land in Terrey Hills. Construction in Terrey Hills began in 2006 with funding from Germany (over AUD 13 million) and teaching commenced at the Terrey Hills site in August 2008. In 2010 two new buildings housing a library and additional classrooms were added, and the land area was doubled by purchasing part of a neighbour's land. Four classrooms were added in 2017–2018, and in early 2022 three modular classrooms opened to an eco-friendly passive-house standard. | History The King's School has a heritage linked to the year 1831, reflected in the long-standing uniform tradition that connects generations of Kingsmen. The Braeside Shop, established February 1992, manages uniforms and related items under The King's School Foundation's umbrella. Profits from Braeside Shop go back to the School, supporting its programs. This foundation-supported structure underpins the School's ongoing operations. |
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Community
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Community The GISS community is multicultural and lively, with over 390 students from 20 countries and more than 50 teachers and 12 administration staff. Approximately 230 GISS families form the active Parent Representative Council (PRC) and the School Board. There is an alumni group for current and former students and teachers. | Community Old Boys Union is part of The King's School community. The school offers Supporter Clubs across multiple sports, including basketball, cricket, football, rugby and tennis. A Clothing Pool provides second-hand uniforms for The King's School students. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The PRC and the School Board are active governance bodies within GISS. GISS families participate in school life through these groups. The school hosts major community events with extensive parent and student volunteering. The Christmas Market is the biggest community event of the year, featuring German food, music, games and activities, supported by Cupra and the Casella Family. Volunteers contribute to cooking and organizing, with heartfelt thanks to all involved. | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Science & Experiments (B1) is offered for Year 1–4; Year 5–6 work on a project for the Science Fair. STE(A)M (B2) provides coding, robotics, 3D design/printing and media exploration. Technology (B3) covers video creation, audio integration, stop-motion, podcasts and augmented reality projects. | Academic & intellectual The King's School has a long and respected record of academic excellence. Academic excellence is a core part of The King's School's education, with teaching and learning central to school life. The education emphasises developing minds and leadership within a Christian community. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative — | Arts & creative Music and the performing arts are integral to life at King's. The school offers a fully-equipped Music Centre, King's Theatre (a 350-seat performance space) and a Drama Centre with a black box theatre, plus a Green Room and changing areas. Music and performance are supported through choirs, ensembles and school productions. The facilities also include storage facilities to support arts and performance. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Exchange Program: Students have the opportunity to participate in a student exchange with Germany, visiting Germany for about three weeks every two years; includes a week staying with a host family and visits to our German partner school. German as an Additional Language (DaF) is taught with CLIL integration and language support; Year 7 entry leads into CLIL subjects such as Art, Music and PE in German, with ongoing language development and the option to participate in a Year 9/10 exchange. The school hosts community language events such as the Christmas Market and excursions to the Goethe Institute. | Cultural & language French is taught as an additional language at Tudor House. Diversity and global citizenship are emphasised, with cross-cultural learning and international-mindedness being part of the curriculum. Tudor House is co-educational and focuses on global perspectives alongside English. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Co-Curricular Activities (AGs) are available for Year 1–6 on Tuesdays; students select one activity per term. GISS Football Academy provides professional football training in partnership with Borussia Dortmund, with holiday camps and programs for boys and girls aged U6–U17. | Social & hobbies Co-curricular opportunities span sport, music and the arts, with extensive after-school programs. Extra-curricular activities at Tudor House include Chess Club, Lego League, Dance, Debating and Snowsport, among others. Prep and other campuses offer after-school activities such as ICT, Mandarin and Robotics, and After School Care is available. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Social Entrepreneurship – AG has run since 2021 for Years 3–7, connecting students to the community and industry. Students develop entrepreneurship skills, design thinking, budgeting and financial literacy. Teams present ideas to leadership, use start-up capital and donate profits to charities, supporting global citizenship. | Community & service Service Learning is a feature of The King's School's leadership development. The King's School leadership program includes House Leadership and School Monitors, the Cadet Corps, Boys to Men, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Community Outreach. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional The Student Representative Council (SRC) was elected in Term 1, 2024. The SRC informs students about important issues, holds regular meetings with class captains, and organises events and fundraisers to support the charity 'A Girl & Her World.' | Leadership & professional Leadership development is a central feature of King's education. The leadership program includes Service Learning, House Leadership, School Monitors, Cadet Corps, Boys to Men, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Community Outreach. International experiences and seminars contribute to developing global thought leadership. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing GISS Football Academy provides high-level training and holiday camps in partnership with Borussia Dortmund. After School & Vacation Care runs Monday to Friday after school and during holidays, offering activities including science, cooking and sport. Swimming Carnivals and other sports events are part of school life. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Boarding is central to The King's School, with boarding life at the heart of School life, developing independence and resilience. The wellbeing of students is paramount and the school maintains a Christian community ethos with safeguarding provisions. The sporting program and facilities—including a 50-metre pool, a 25-metre pool, 17 ovals and a range of courts—support physical health and wellbeing. The school also emphasizes character and values consistent with a caring community. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English and German are core languages of instruction. Primary features six English and five German lessons weekly, with Maths and General Studies taught in German. From Year 6, French is available as a foreign language and Spanish from Year 8; German is offered as a foreign language for students not fluent. Religion is taught in German and Ethics in English from Year 1, with CLIL providing language support across Arts, Music and PE. | Language provision French is taught in Tudor House as a language in addition to English, delivered as a specialist class. Tudor House is an authorised International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) School, delivering inquiry-led, transdisciplinary learning. In Senior School, Educational Support Services provide English as a second language support and literacy consolidation. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching English and German are the languages of instruction across Preschool to Year 10. Primary uses six English and five German lessons weekly, with Maths and General Studies taught in German. Arts, Music and PE are taught in German with integrated language support (CLIL), and Religion is taught in German or Ethics in English from Year 1. In Junior Secondary, Maths, Biology, Humanities and History can be taken in either English or German. | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs An intensive language immersion programme leads to bilingual competency in English and German. Preschoolers participate in immersion with highly qualified bilingual teachers. The program enables second-language acquisition through authentic experiences in both languages, with pace tailored to each child. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations CRICOS NUMBER 02326F |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Open Day and tours: Register for Open Day to visit the school and meet staff and students. A principal‑led presentation explains the curriculum and learning methods. If the event day or time is not convenient, group tours or virtual tours are available. Attending Open Day helps families understand the school environment before applying. 2. Online information and enrolment checklist: Access important information about the school online and review the checklist with the required forms to prepare the application. The online resources outline the documents needed and any deadlines. Families can request a meeting with the registrar or school management team to discuss individual circumstances if required. After reviewing, proceed to the online application. 3. Submit online application: Submit the application online. An application fee of $250 is invoiced at the end of the online application. Provide copies of passport(s) and birth certificate where applicable, and the last two school reports; upload documents to the online application. Ensure all required documents are ready before submission. 4. Approval process after submission: Following submission, you will receive an email confirming receipt and updates on the approval process. GISS reviews the application after the documents are received. The outcome will be communicated: a place may be offered, a place may be placed on the waiting list, or the application may be declined. Additional documents may be requested if needed. 5. Interview and admission test: Once all required documents are received, you will be invited to book your child's interview and, if applicable, an admission test. All Kindergarten to Year 12 students must participate in an age-appropriate interview. If the child is overseas at the time, the interview can be conducted online in English or German. A trial day may be scheduled before or after the interview. 6. Enrolment offer, contract and start information: As soon as enrolment is approved, you will receive an offer that includes the enrolment form and notice for the enrolment fee due. After the enrolment form is completed and the enrolment fee is paid, you will receive a copy of the enrolment contract and enrolment is complete. Before school starts, you will receive additional information via email and/or a parent information session to set up your child for a smooth start. The school may provide visa information for overseas students if applicable. | Admissions Step 1: Intake points and eligibility. The King's School has four intake years: Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, Year 5 and Year 7. From time to time there may be vacancies in non-intake years, and the Admissions Office should be contacted to discuss availability. The 31 March cut‑off birth date applies to the intake year to determine the correct grade level. Step 2: Application and waitlist. Enrolment applications are placed on a waitlist and progress is subject to vacancies; not all applications progress to an interview or an offer of a place. The enrolment registration fee is AU$300 and is non-refundable. Step 3: Campus-specific intake timelines. The Preparatory School (Pre‑K to Year 6) is currently interviewing for entry in 2027 with limited placements for 2026; Tudor House (Pre‑K to Year 6) and Boarding from Years 3 to 6 are interviewing for 2026 and beyond; Senior School (Years 7 to 12) is currently interviewing for day and boarding entry in 2027 and beyond. Step 4: Scholarships and bursaries overview. Scholarships and bursaries are available for entry to Years 7 to 11; awards are governed by terms and conditions and may continue for the duration of enrolment. Some bursaries are means‑tested to assist with boarding costs. Applications for the 2027 Scholarships and Bursaries Program have closed; information for 2028 opens upon registration. Step 5: International applicants. To apply as an international student, complete the online registration and include supporting documents (e.g., last 2 years of school reports translated into English, birth certificate, passport, AEAS results where relevant, extra‑curricular certificates, medical notes). AAU$300 non-refundable registration fee is required. English language proficiency is required, with AEAS testing for Years 7–11 and specific minimum AEAS scores by year. The King's School operates under ESOS framework and provides orientation for new international students; the School does not use recruitment agents. For entry, international students may join from Tudor House (Years 3–6) or Senior School (Years 7–12), typically at the start of the academic year. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships IB Scholarship offers up to 50% tuition support for the two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB Year 11 and 12). It is available to internal and external local Year 10 students with English fluency. Eligibility includes preferably two years at an Australian school, a record of high academic achievement, strong English and Maths, willingness to study in a bilingual/multilingual international environment, personal integrity, and commitment to service learning. German language knowledge is not a prerequisite. How to apply: Year 10 students currently enrolled at GISS email ibscholarship@giss.nsw.edu.au with last four school reports and Year 9 NAPLAN results, a personal statement, and an explanation of why they deserve the scholarship. Year 10 students from another school should start the GISS online application, upload birth certificates, passports, last four reports, and latest NAPLAN results, then email ibscholarship@giss.nsw.edu.au with the personal statement. Applications close on December 3, 2025. | Scholarships Scholarships and bursaries are available for entry to Years 7 to 11; awards are governed by specific terms and conditions and may continue for the duration of enrolment, up to Year 12. Some bursaries are means-tested to assist with boarding costs. Applications for the 2027 Scholarships and Bursaries Program have now closed; to receive information about when the 2028 program opens please register. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist An assessment is conducted after the application. The school may offer a place, place the applicant on the waiting list, or decline the application. | Waitlist Enrolment applications are placed on a waitlist and progressed subject to vacancies; not all applications progress to an interview or offer. The enrolment registration fee is AU$300 and is non-refundable. |
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