# Fort Street High School

Fort Street High School is a NSW government secondary school in Petersham, New South Wales, Australia.

- **Sector**: NSW government school
- **Type**: Secondary School
- **Gender**: Co-ed
- **Year levels**: Year 7 to Year 12
- **Enrolments**: 917 (2025)
- **Address**: 620 Parramatta Road, Petersham NSW 2049
- **Phone**: (02) 9569 4355
- **Website**: https://fortstreet-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/
- **Email**: fortstreet-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
- **ACARA AGE ID**: 47605
- **Established**: 1975-01-01

## About

Fort Street High School is the oldest government high school in Australia, established in 1849, and recognised for its continued academic excellence. Located in Petersham, the school has a diverse community, with approximately 920 students representing over 100 Sydney suburbs and speaking around 40 different languages. It has a rich tradition of co-education, having transitioned to a co-educational model in 1974. The school prides itself on its broad curriculum and comprehensive co-curricular programs, which include sports, creative and performing arts, and a prestigious Instrumental Music Program.

The school’s mission is to foster individual growth and development while nurturing students into model citizens who are prepared to make a positive impact on society. With around 95% of HSC graduates proceeding to their chosen universities, Fort Street regularly sees students achieving high academic rankings across a range of subjects.

Fort Street High School also places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, promoting a healthy and supportive environment for all learners. The school's motto, "faber est suae quisque fortunae," encourages students to take charge of their own futures. Known for its strong sense of community and commitment to social justice, the school has produced many notable alumni, including prominent thinkers and leaders in various fields. With a focus on tolerance and respect, Fort Street celebrates its rich history and continues to strive for excellence in education.

## Mission

At Fort Street High School, the vision is for every student to reach their full potential through a supportive and inclusive environment that challenges them to learn and improve continually.

Motto: "faber est suae quisque fortunae."

## Enrolment history

| Year | Enrolments |
| --- | --- |
| 2025 | 917 |
| 2024 | 913 |
| 2023 | 912 |
| 2022 | 909 |
| 2021 | 913 |
| 2020 | 919 |
| 2019 | 908 |
| 2018 | 909 |
| 2017 | 927 |
| 2016 | 941 |
| 2015 | 941 |
| 2014 | 934 |
| 2013 | 940 |
| 2012 | 928 |
| 2011 | 918 |
| 2010 | 923 |
| 2009 | 927 |
| 2008 | 929 |

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Source: SchoolAtlas (https://www.schoolatlas.com.au/schools/47605-fort-street-high-school), compiled from ACARA and NSW Department of Education data, reference year 2025. SchoolAtlas does not rank schools.