Balgowlah Boys has recorded some of the state’s strongest HSC mathematics results, achieving the highest average score among comprehensive public schools.
Background and Context
Balgowlah Boys, a government-funded single-sex comprehensive secondary school in Balgowlah, has established itself as one of New South Wales’ strongest performing public schools. The school has reported sustained academic progress across multiple areas alongside its HSC outcomes.
HSC Mathematics Achievement
An analysis of New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) data published in August 2025 showed that Balgowlah Boys achieved an average HSC mathematics score of 88.4 across all courses between 2022 and 2024. This positioned the school as the highest-performing comprehensive public school in mathematics.
Selective schools such as North Sydney Boys, James Ruse, and Baulkham Hills recorded higher averages overall. Among comprehensive schools, however, Balgowlah Boys outperformed Epping Boys (84.9) and Killara High (84.5).
Teaching Approach and Student Development
According to the school’s head of mathematics, success in senior mathematics is linked to explicit teaching, high expectations from Year 7, and tasks that challenge students to reach advanced levels of study. New teachers at Balgowlah undertake observational rounds to strengthen classroom consistency and maintain teaching standards.
Former leadership also noted that the school’s focus on reading and literacy contributed to stronger mathematics results, as improved comprehension skills assist students in interpreting complex exam questions.
Wider Academic Performance
School-provided data highlights broader academic outcomes. In 2024, Balgowlah Boys reported a 42 per cent Band 6 rate in Advanced and Extension English, placing it among the state’s top 20 comprehensive schools for that subject. The school also recorded 169 students listed as High Achievers across mathematics, sciences, English, legal studies, and creative subjects.
In 2021, school figures showed that 53 per cent of Years 7 and 9 students achieved results in the top two NAPLAN bands for reading and numeracy, compared to 32 per cent in 2011.
Student Support and Inclusion
Balgowlah Boys also reports a strong focus on student wellbeing and inclusion. The school provides individualised learning plans, specialist tuition, support for English language learners, adjustments for disability, and access to both a school counsellor and student support officer.
Outlook
Balgowlah Boys’ mathematics performance reflects targeted teaching practices and consistent standards, supported by literacy development and broader academic programs. Its results highlight the role of structured teaching and student support in preparing learners for senior studies.
Published 3-Sep-2025
