The Forest High School’s journey from concept to reality spans nearly a decade: first envisioned in 2018, formally approved in 2023, and opening its doors tomorrow, Monday, 2 February.
Despite ongoing construction work, approximately 830 students will walk through the gates on the first day of Term 1, with the NSW Department of Education confirming an all-hands-on-deck effort over the weekend to prepare.
They said all internal learning spaces would be ready before the bell rang on Monday morning, however, landscaping and sports fields are expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
In the interim, the Department said alternative arrangements, such as Allambie Oval, have been put in place to ensure students can continue their sporting activities until the grounds are finished.
The Department has also pointed to the school’s U-shaped design, saying it should help keep any building-site noise to a minimum once lessons begin.
The new campus has been built to cater for a much larger student population.
When fully operational, Forest High School will accommodate up to 1,500 students, around double the number at the former Frenchs Forest site.
Facilities on the new campus include 73 classrooms, three special support units, a library, canteen, a multi-purpose sports and performance hall, as well as outdoor courts and playing fields.
Accessibility has also been improved, addressing longstanding limitations at the school’s previous location.
The new facility replaces the 64-year-old Frenchs Forest High School formerly based in Frenchs Forest, which is being demolished to make way for a town centre development featuring residential apartments.
Read our earlier coverage here:
Work begins on Forest High School’s relocation to Allambie Heights
