Co-curricular

Music has had a central place at Grammar for many years. Boys learn one, and often two instruments, and have many opportunities to perform both in small ensembles and larger orchestras. The School’s position in the centre of the city means that it is easy to find outside engagements. The Music Department is very strong, both in terms of the quality of its teaching staff, and the quality of its facilities. We offer a number of music scholarships for outstanding performers.

Art

Art too occupies a position of great importance. The History of Art is an increasingly popular discipline here and, at the level of practical studies, we take seriously the idea that boys must acquire a technical competence in skills such as drawing, perspective and composition if they seek to progress in this subject. Photography and ceramics are popular and each year we sponsor a professional Artist in Residence, who sets up a studio in the School and works alongside the boys.

Sport

Sport at Grammar is structured so as to support the School’s liberal academic focus and not drive or influence it. Boys are expected to play a summer and winter sport and to treat their School team obligations as the priority. Year-round organised team coaching for one particular sport is not permitted, and the School strictly enforces limits on the amount of time allocated to training. The School has excellent facilities for sport. Most cricket, rugby, football and tennis games are played at Weigall, Grammar’s ground at Rushcutters Bay which is about two kilometres east of College Street. Swimming takes place at Cook and Phillip Park adjacent to the School. The boatshed, with full rowing facilities, is located at Gladesville. At College Street there is a large gymnasium and facilities for basketball, volleyball, rifle shooting and fencing.

Other

Many boys choose to join the School’s Army Cadet Corps, or the Air Force Cadets. Debating attracts a number of boys each year. Boys can join many special interest clubs including (and this is just a sample) chess, philosophy, creative writing, electronics, drama, fly-fishing, film and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.