Ocean-View Public School Attracts Parents’ Attention
The relocation of Forest High School marks a significant milestone in the education landscape of the northern beaches region. Starting on February 1, 2026, the school will officially open its doors at a new site in Allambie Heights, just three kilometers east of its previous location. This modern institution boasts an ocean view and a range of state-of-the-art facilities designed to support diverse student interests.
New Facilities and Design
The newly constructed school has been built at a cost of $112 million. Among its many features are:
- A theatre for performing arts
- A fully equipped gym
- All-weather sports fields
- Air conditioning for comfort
Principal Nathan Lawler emphasized the school’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging. “Our role is to serve our community as a comprehensive high school,” he stated. The school aims to cater to various student profiles, whether athletic, creative, or academic.
Increasing Enrolments
The transition to the new facility has influenced enrolments positively. Typically, Forest High sees about 120 Year 7 students each year. This year, however, 145 students have enrolled, reflecting a trend across all year groups. The draw towards Forest has also seen families leaving private and single-sex institutions, such as Balgowlah Boys and Mackellar Girls.
Lawler noted several reasons for this increase. He highlighted the school’s strong reputation among parents and the allure of a new educational environment. Additionally, changes in catchment areas have allowed more families to access the school.
Community and Controversy
The establishment of the new Forest High School is part of a broader reconfiguration of educational options on the northern beaches. Freshwater High is set to transition from a senior campus for Years 11 and 12 to a comprehensive school for Years 7 to 12 from next year. However, this shift has met some resistance. The Freshwater community advocated for its senior status to continue but was unsuccessful.
Other schools, like Mackellar Girls and Balgowlah Boys, maintained their single-sex model, yet plans to convert them to co-educational institutions have been scrapped, leading to some controversy.
Moving Forward
Despite initial trepidation, students are now excited about beginning this new chapter in a modern educational setting. “They’re almost in disbelief that we’ve got a facility that’s this nice,” Lawler shared. As students settle into the new Forest High School, the administration expects to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive community.
With its unique positioning and comprehensive offerings, the Ocean-View Public School initiative exemplifies the evolving nature of education in this region. Parents and students alike are eager to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
