Surging interest in Reddam House as the north shore's private school obsession continues

Independent schools across New South Wales have experienced a “surge” in demand over the last five years, with annual enrolments growing almost twice as fast as other sectors. With wait lists growing, capacity constraints, and competition for enrolment, the north shore is set to welcome Reddam House in North Sydney this year.

With annual fees starting at $28,875 for kindergarten and $43,625 for Years 9 and 10, Reddam House is one of the state’s top-ranking private schools. Its introduction to the north shore is representative of a community that can’t get enough of private education.

The independent school “surge”

According to the Association of Independent Schools of NSW, the demand for private education across the state has “surged” over the last two decades. 

A spokesperson told the North Shore Lorikeet annual student growth across all NSW independent schools has averaged 2.9% since 2018 — compared with 1.6% for NSW Catholic system schools.

“On the north shore, demand for places at independent schools remains equally strong but is limited by capacity constraints and planning issues,” said the spokesperson.

“Many Independent schools have waiting lists as they are unable to accommodate more students due to enrolment caps, which don’t apply to government schools,” they stated. 

The AINSW spokesperson also said that applications to expand classroom places often faced local opposition.

Reddam House enters the north shore

For the past three years, Reddam House has been ranked in the top 5 schools in NSW based on Higher School Certificate (HSC) results, securing an impressive 5th-place state ranking. 

The new North Sydney campus will be housed in the iconic, heritage-listed Simsmetal House, designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler in 1971. Located at 41 McLaren Street, the eight-story building has been transformed into a modern educational space for students from kindergarten through to Year 12.

The North Shore Lorikeet spoke to a Reddam House spokesperson about the launch of their new co-educational campus in North Sydney. 

North Shore Lorikeet: What are the estimated enrolment numbers for the first year at the new North Sydney campus, and how do you plan to manage the transition as the campus grows over the next few years?

Reddam House: The new North Sydney campus is set to open with slightly fewer than 500 students in its first year, accommodating students from kindergarten through Year 10.

The campus will gradually expand its enrolment, with full capacity expected by 2027. At that time, the school will offer classes from kindergarten to Year 12.

To manage this transition, we have adopted a staggered enrolment approach, ensuring that as the student body grows, the necessary infrastructure, staffing, and support services are in place to maintain a high standard of education and personalised care.

Can you share more about the facilities at the North Sydney campus, like sports amenities, arts spaces, or technology resources?

The North Sydney campus will offer state-of-the-art facilities designed to support a wide range of academic, artistic, and athletic pursuits.

Key facilities include: 54 all-purpose classrooms, 5 state-of-the-art science laboratories, bespoke arts, design, and technology areas, music studios with 12 practice rooms, a sports hall and auditorium, a dedicated dance studio, multipurpose breakout spaces, a senior resource centre with study rooms, multiple libraries, outdoor terraces with play areas, and a stunning roof terrace offering views of Sydney Harbour.

Given the school's expansion to a new campus, are there any plans for future growth in terms of facilities, programs, or extracurricular offerings to accommodate the increasing number of students?

Reddam House has a long-standing tradition of tailoring extracurricular programs based on students' interests. For example, when students previously expressed interest in fishing, it was offered as an enrichment activity.

As the campus grows, the school will continue to introduce new sports and extracurricular activities driven by student demand.

With the building designed to accommodate future growth, it will not reach full capacity until 2027, ensuring there is ample space for expansion in terms of both facilities and program offerings.

What unique features or programs will the new North Sydney campus offer to distinguish it from other schools in the area, and how will these contribute to the academic and personal development of students?

The new North Sydney campus will distinguish itself through several unique features and programs that enhance both academic and personal development.

Students will benefit from access to Inspired Education's global opportunities, including international camps and competitions. The global exchange program allows students to study at partner schools worldwide for durations ranging from four weeks to a year, with destinations including the UK, Kenya, South Africa, Spain, and the Bahamas.

Additionally, starting this year, Reddam House will launch the Inspired Metaverse School, a cutting-edge initiative that provides safe, collaborative, teacher-led VR learning experiences. 

Reddam House’s Enrolment Process

Reddam House enrolment begins with an application, key documents, and a $300 fee. Applicants are reviewed in order of submission, with kindergarten reviewed 12 months prior and Year 5 and 7, 24 months in advance. Academic Scholarships are available for Years 7-11, offering partial or full tuition remission.

The Reddam House spokesperson told The North Shore Lorikeet that interest in enrolment for 2025 and beyond had “already been substantial”, reflecting the “community’s enthusiasm for the new campus.” 

Year 5 and Year 7 Orientation sessions for Reddam House will begin on Monday, January 29th. Term 1 for all students, from kindergarten to Year 12, will officially begin on Tuesday, January 30th.

Image Credit: BuiltAustralia