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Glenunga International High School

Australia, Adelaide

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees Fees not listed
Ages 12 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 2340
Type Co-educational
Opened 1903
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Australian Curriculum, IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages English, Mandarin, French, Japanese, Indonesian, Spanish
Strengths STEM, Languages, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Middle School, Secondary School, Senior Secondary School
Introduction

Glenunga International High School is a public secondary school in Adelaide offering a diverse, modern curriculum for students aged 12 to 18. In Years 7–10, the school follows the Australian Curriculum, while Years 11–12 can pursue the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. Students may combine Vocational Education and Training with SACE studies. The school also offers a bespoke curriculum that supports 21st‑century skills and international mindedness, with IB courses a distinguished feature since the early 1990s. The campus includes the Learning Hub, a flexible resource center with staff support, and The Pod, a multidisciplinary space for academic, social and emotional wellbeing. The Wellbeing space, and on‑site dining through Rory's School Lunches, underline a strong pastoral program. Extracurriculars are extensive, including STEM clubs, language groups, arts showcases and community service initiatives, reflecting a culture of student leadership and global engagement for curious, global learners.

The Essentials

Glenunga International High School has 2,340 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
99 L'Estrange Street, Glenunga, South Australia 5064. Located in the suburb of Glenunga within the Adelaide metropolitan area. The campus map highlights key facilities including the New Gymnasium, Old Gymnasium, Science, Technology & Learning Building, Arts Quadrangle, Rod Pike Area, Performing Arts Centre, Reception/Administration, Student Services and Margret Bond and Webb Ovals.

Stages
Years 7 to 12

Type
Public high school

Pupil Nationality Mix
101 different cultural backgrounds from 67 different countries of birth; international students and study tours are hosted.

School day structure
Timetable: 10-day cycle. Students arrive at 8:30am every day except Wednesdays when they arrive at 9:45am. Students finish at 3:25pm every day unless they have a Line 0 class. Line 0 classes run from 3:35pm to 5:15pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
The school requires students to wear the Glenunga Uniform. A range of uniform options is available for all ages, with cultural adaptations approved by the Principal when needed. Brandmode is the uniform provider.

Food Options
The school has a canteen, Rory's, offering a wide variety of fresh food and drinks and catering to dietary needs. Lunch can be pre-ordered at the canteen or via the Qkr! app by 8:30am.

House System
There are four Houses; House and Spirit Captains lead the Houses in a range of activities.

Governance and Ownership
The school is a public school governed by the Department for Education. A Governing Council comprising parents, the Principal, teacher representatives and student leaders guides the school.
Fees
Application fees

- There is no separate one‑off application fee listed for international enrolment; an Administration and Support Service Fee of AUD 720 is charged in the first year for international students and an Annual Support Service Fee of AUD 370 applies in subsequent years.

Tuition fees (international students) — annual and per term

- High School Graduate Program (Years 7–10): Annual tuition AUD 15,880 — equivalent to AUD 3,970 per term (4 terms per year).
- High School Graduate Program (Years 11–12): Annual tuition AUD 17,440 — equivalent to AUD 4,360 per term.
- Primary (Reception–Year 6) annual tuition AUD 12,960 — equivalent to AUD 3,240 per term.
- Study Abroad Program (term‑by‑term fee options): Years 7–10 — 1 term AUD 9,768; 2 terms AUD 18,256; 3 terms AUD 26,744; 4 terms AUD 35,231. Years 11–12 — 1 term AUD 10,158; 2 terms AUD 19,036; 3 terms AUD 27,914; 4 terms AUD 36,791. Regional Study Abroad Program (Years 7–12) — 1 term AUD 8,788; 2 terms AUD 17,276; 3 terms AUD 25,764; 4 terms AUD 34,251. Primary Study Abroad Program (Reception–Year 6) — 1 term AUD 4,418; 2 terms AUD 7,856; 3 terms AUD 11,294; 4 terms AUD 14,731.

Domestic (Australian resident) fees and charges

- Materials and Services Charge for 2026: AUD 1,025 (approved by the Governing Council). Additional subject charges and other activity charges are billed separately. Selected subject fees are invoiced once per semester after subjects are finalised; other additional charges (sports, excursions, camps) occur throughout the year.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- International students: term commencement dates and application/payment windows are set each year; payment deadlines for an individual offer are shown on the Letter of Offer. The Letter of Offer payment deadline is calculated as 60 days from the date of issue (or 7 days if the course commencement is less than 60 days away). Term commencement dates for 2026 are published (Term 1: 27 January 2026; Term 2: 27 April 2026; Term 3: 20 July 2026; Term 4: 12 October 2026) and the Letter of Offer will show the initial payment deadline.
- Domestic families: subject fees are invoiced in Semester 1 and Semester 2; additional activities (camps, excursions, sports) are invoiced when organised. An instalment plan is available (fortnightly or monthly direct debit via bank account or credit card); the instalment plan must be established at the start of the school year by completing the school's Direct Debit Instalment Form.

Boarding / Homestay

- The school does not provide on‑campus boarding; international students use homestay accommodation arranged and managed by South Australian Government Schools – International Education Services (IES). Homestay fees (per week) are: Single room AUD 360; Shared room AUD 300. Homestay changeover and placement fees and other accommodation charges apply (for example Homestay Changeover Fee AUD 200; Accommodation Services Fee AUD 200).

Other costs and common additional charges

- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC, single cover for 12 months): AUD 791 (rate noted as at 30 September 2024).
- SACE enrolment/assessment/certification fees for Year 11/12: Stage 1 annual fee AUD 517; Stage 2 annual fee AUD 1,138 (non‑refundable).
- Typical additional school costs (approximate): stationery AUD 150 per year; school and sports uniform AUD 250–AUD 600; school excursions AUD 50–AUD 100 per year; school camps AUD 100–AUD 300 per year; scientific/graphics calculators AUD 50–AUD 200; laptop or external storage where required (varies by school). Subject‑specific or special interest program fees may apply.

Refund information (international students)

- Visa refusal: full refund of fees paid less the Administration and Support Service Fee (per family). Withdrawal by student prior to course commencement: if the student withdraws 6 weeks or more before commencement, all paid fees (excluding the Administration and Support Service Fee) are refunded less a AUD 500 administration charge; if withdrawal is less than 6 weeks before commencement, tuition fees and Administration and Support Service Fee are not refunded and other specific non‑refundable items apply. Cancellation by student after commencement: remaining OSHC and homestay fees may be refunded less a AUD 500 administration charge; tuition fees and the Administration and Support Service Fee are not refunded. Refund requests must be made in writing with evidence within 12 months of exiting the international student program; refunds are processed within four weeks of receipt of the written application (or within 14 days if the Department is unable to deliver the course). Detailed refund conditions, including treatment of homestay placement fees, airport reception and other items, are set out in the Department's refund table.

Fee payment options

- Accepted payment channels: the school's secure BPoint online payment system; by phone; or in person at the school Finance office window during school hours. Instalment plans are available (direct debit from bank account or credit card). There is no option for BPAY or BSB bank transfer for school payments; payments for activities, sports and excursions occur via EdSmart or Trybooking links when arranged. Contact the Finance Team for instalment plan setup and enquiries.

(End of fee overview.)
Academics

Glenunga International High School teaches Australian Curriculum, IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 12 to 18.

Curriculum
A broad-based, 21st Century curriculum is offered. Years 7–10 study the Australian Curriculum; Years 11–12 study either the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. Students can also combine Vocational Education and Training (VET) with their SACE studies.

Exam Results
Year 12 SACE results: 54% of results in the A band; 48 SACE merits; 100% SACE completion. Year 12 IB results: 51 IB merits; 93.60 median ATAR for IB students; 34% of IB students scored 40/45 or above.

Higher Education Progression
84% chose a university pathway.

Gifted and Talented
Ignite is Glenunga's specialist program for gifted and talented students.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The Ignite program supports students with high intellectual potential and focuses on building social and emotional skills. Ignite fosters socio-emotional maturity through mentor groups and personalised learning pathways, with emphasis on 21st-century capabilities such as Creative and Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Citizenship and Character. The Wellbeing Framework emphasises connectedness, inclusion, emotional engagement and student agency, supported by the Wellbeing Team and The POD (Learner Support). LEAPPB provides emotion regulation and social development as part of the Holistic Education Curriculum.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The POD is a centralised space which provides specialised learner and positive behavioural support for a range of students. The POD, in partnership with the Inclusive Education Team, provides personalised interventions for students with verified disabilities, those with additional learning needs, diverse abilities and students requiring support with their emotional and social development. The Wellbeing Team links with Sub School Leaders to ensure needs are met through case management, learning support and wellbeing programs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as an Additional Language (EAL) is included in the curriculum and is listed among Year 8–12 offerings alongside English Language and Literature and other language subjects.

Mental Wellbeing
The Wellbeing Team provides one-on-one or small group counselling, psychological interventions, mentoring and targeted wellbeing programs. Proactive programs include StressLess (anxiety-management), Elevate (improved student connectedness) and EQuip (social skills for neurodivergent students). The team works with Sub Schools and external agencies to support students' emotional and social development.

Safeguarding
safeguarding is embedded in Glenunga's approach through the Wellbeing Team and The POD, which provide personalised interventions and connect students to external services as needed. The POD acts as a centralised, flexible learning space to accommodate individual student needs and to safeguard wellbeing and behaviour across the school.
Parent Experience

History
The original Adelaide Technical High School opened on the Glenunga site in 1963. It traces its roots to the Preparatory School of the South Australian School of Mines and Industries, established in 1903 with about 90 students. The school relocated to Glenunga and was renamed Glenunga High School in 1974. The International Baccalaureate program was introduced in 1990–91, and the school became Glenunga International High School in 1992. In March 2015 the Blue and Gold Alumni Association was launched to connect former students and fund two scholarships.

Community
The school offers numerous Student LIFE clubs that provide opportunities for students to share interests, make friends and develop as holistic learners. The Pod provides a safe, welcoming space with a multidisciplinary team to support wellbeing and learning, including personalised interventions for students. The News & Events hub keeps the community informed with items such as Our 2025 SACE & IB Results, Ignite Program Information Evenings and the Drama & Media Showcases. Governing Council members participate in school celebrations, forums and fundraising events, reflecting an active and engaged community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Governing Council plays an important and proactive role in guiding the school's values, strategic directions, the Council of International Schools accreditation and the Department for Education's External School Review. Members also participate in school celebrations, forums and fundraising events. Governing Council comprises parents, the Principal, teacher representatives and our student leaders. Membership is for two years and elections take place at the Annual General Meeting. New Family Resources provide short videos focusing on the Glenunga story, contact points and supporting student learning. The Council has a Community Engagement Committee that organises events for families to build community. Enquiries can be emailed to the school for more information.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The Learning Hub is a dynamic, flexible learning space with a broad collection of print, digital and audio resources to support curriculum needs. The Hub team includes a Teacher Librarian and staff who help students use the resources, and the Hub Club provides student leadership opportunities within Learning Hub activities. The Pod is a flexible, dynamic learning space and learner support model delivering academic, social-emotional and positive behavioural support through a multidisciplinary team. The Wellbeing space is located in Student Services and offers private suites for confidential appointments, a quiet room and lounge spaces for students to regulate their emotions. Rory's School Lunches provides a wide variety of food and drinks with pre-order and cafeteria-style recess and lunch service available.

Sports Facilities
Sport at Glenunga includes interhouse sport and after-school competitions with teams participating in the Southern Zone Secondary Schools Sports Association and state knockout events. Interhouse sport features multiple house teams competing across the year, including Sports Day and swimming carnivals. The gym is a facility on campus used for physical education, and the Year 7 transition program begins in the gym. Gym facilities and a range of sports offerings are supported by student sports programs and clubs such as Gym - Weights Training & Fitness.

Academic Facilities
The Learning Hub provides extensive print, digital and audio resources to support curriculum needs, with a Teacher Librarian and Hub leadership supporting student use and learning. The Pod offers personalised academic, social-emotional and behavioural support delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including opportunities for Learner Conferences, ePortfolios and goal setting. The school provides specialist programs including the International Baccalaureate. The Arts program covers Visual Art, Music, Film and Drama with regular events such as music and drama showcases.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Student LIFE Clubs offer a wide range of activities including Amnesty, Art, Book, Chess, Coding, Debating, Film, French, Gaming, Gym - Weights Training & Fitness, Handball, Lego, Mock Trials, Musical Theatre, Premier's Reading Challenge and numerous other clubs. Additional clubs and activities include Hub, Interschool Chess, Kpop, LEO, Mooting, Track & Field, UN Youth, Vex Robotics, World Wildlife Fund and Youth Voice - Rostrum. The school also runs interhouse sport and after-school competitions, with students participating in a broad schedule of carnivals and events throughout the year.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
A broad range of student-led academic and intellectual activities is offered. Vex Robotics, Debating, Mock Trials, Coding, Interschool Chess and Philosophy clubs provide opportunities to explore STEM and humanities beyond the classroom. Club activities often involve competitions, exhibitions, and interschool events that develop problem-solving and collaboration skills. The Glenunga Dispatch and other academic-interest groups support student voices and project-based learning.

Arts & Creative
The Arts program includes Visual Art, Music, Film and Drama, with a wide range of elective courses. Students participate in events such as the annual Music Gala and various drama performances. Highlights include the Year 10–12 Drama & Media Showcase, the Middle School Summer Film Festival, and the Semester 2 Middle School Music Showcase. The school fosters creative production and performance as part of 21st-century learning.

Cultural & Language
Language clubs include Chinese, French and Vietnamese. These clubs provide opportunities for language practice and cultural exchange. The school promotes international mindedness through student activities and community involvement.

Social & Hobbies
A broad array of social and hobby clubs covers arts, games, and special-interest groups. Clubs include Amnesty, Chess, Coding, Debating, Film, Gaming Plus, Kpop, Lego, Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and more. Students meet weekly with teacher support to plan events, tournaments, and social activities, extending friendships beyond academics.

Community & Service
The school runs community service and social responsibility activities. Examples include World Vision-40 Hour Famine, Harmony Day, Environment Week, and International Mindedness initiatives, as well as events like Infinite Echo Student Music Festival, Sonic Rainbow, Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea, and Youth Parliament. The Glenunga Dispatch and other student-led initiatives also contribute to community engagement.

Leadership & Professional
Leadership opportunities are available through the Student LIFE team, which organizes events, fundraisers, excursions, and competitions. Students also take on house and spirit captain roles and participate in public-speaking activities such as UN Youth and Mock Trials. The school provides a platform for developing leadership, teamwork, and professional skills beyond the classroom.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Interhouse sport and the After School Sports Program promote fitness and inclusion. Four house teams compete in events such as Sports Day and swimming carnivals, with lunchtime and after-school activities. Glenunga participates in Southern Zone Secondary Schools Sports Association and other state knockout competitions, encouraging participation for all skill levels.
Languages

Language Provision
French, Chinese and Japanese are taught from Year 8 through Year 12. Additional languages are delivered on site through the South Australian School of Languages, including Spanish and Indonesian; depending on demand, Hindi, Serbian, German and Arabic may be offered. IB Language A English and Chinese (Mandarin) are available, and IB Language B is available in English, Chinese, Japanese and French; the IB Self Taught Program is available in Korean, French, Hebrew, Italian and Japanese. Mother tongue language support and intensive English language support are provided for recent arrivals and international fee-paying students, with overseas fee-paying students supported through the Intensive Secondary English Course (ISEC).
Reputation

Accreditations
The Council of International Schools (CIS) accreditation has been held by Glenunga International High School since 2003. The CIS is a global membership community shaping international education; its accreditation is a mark of quality assurance and international benchmarking. The CIS community includes more than 1,500 schools and universities across 120 countries.
Admissions

Admissions
Entry is zone-based. Living in the Glenunga International High School zone makes a student eligible for entry. Outside-zone entry is possible for two special programs: the International Baccalaureate Diploma (Years 11–12) and the Ignite program (Years 7–8), with a Capacity Management Plan reserving spaces for outside-zone entrants. Eligibility for entry includes: living in the GIHS zone; acceptance into the IGNITE program (Year 7–8); identification as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander through Enter for Success (by the end of Term 4); special or extenuating circumstances (including a child in care under the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017); and up to 10 outside-zone entrants to study the IB Diploma in Year 11–12.
School Events
The school has not added events
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