NSW Selective Schools: Equal Opportunities for Boys and Girls

By Pascal Press I October 17, 2025

Big changes are coming to selective school admissions in New South Wales. Starting in 2027, boys and girls will be allocated equal places in selective high schools and opportunity classes, signaling a major step toward fairness in some of the state’s most competitive academic programs.

Breaking the Old Pattern

Selective schools have long been skewed toward boys. Currently, boys occupy 58% of places, with girls making up 42%. In some schools, the imbalance is even more extreme, with male students representing over 75% of certain year groups.

Experts point to a range of factors contributing to this disparity, including differences in access to enrichment programs in primary school and how the testing system is structured. While girls often excel in primary assessments, the odds historically weren’t in their favour when it came to gaining a place in selective schools.

The Gender Parity Overhaul

From 2027, NSW’s Department of Education will implement a gender-balanced admissions policy. Selective and partially selective high schools, along with opportunity classes in public primary schools, will now reserve an equal number of places for boys and girls.

This change isn’t just about equal numbers—it’s about creating fairer learning environments, promoting diversity, and encouraging a broader range of students to take up advanced academic opportunities.

What This Means for Your Child

For families, the message is clear: preparation is more important than ever, but the playing field is becoming fairer. Both boys and girls now have the same chance to secure a place, so parents can focus on helping their children develop the skills, confidence, and strategies needed to excel in selective exams.

Practical Ways to Support Exam Preparation

At Pascal Press, we know that consistent, structured practice is key. Our Excel Selective School and Scholarship Test Workbooks are designed to help students tackle exams effectively:

• Realistic practice questions – Simulate the selective school test experience.

• Comprehensive coverage – Reading, writing, mathematics, and thinking skills included.

• Targeted skill building – Focus on areas where your child may need extra support.

• Confidence-boosting strategies – Step-by-step problem-solving techniques foster independence.

• Flexible approach – Use at home, on weekends, or during holidays to suit your schedule.

Key Takeaways for Parents

The move toward gender-balanced admissions highlights that selective schools are prioritising equity and access. For parents, there are three practical steps:

1. Stay informed – Keep up with changes in selective school policies.

2. Support consistent preparation – Structured study remains essential to exam performance.

3. Use the right resources – Curriculum-aligned workbooks build both confidence and skills.

With the right support, students can approach selective school exams with confidence, no matter their gender.

Moving Forward

While NSW’s selective schools are evolving, the most effective way for families to respond is through careful, consistent preparation. Pascal Press’ Excel Selective School and Scholarship Test Workbooks give students the tools to practice effectively, reduce exam stress, and feel ready for this competitive academic environment.

Click here to explore our full range of Excel Selective School and Scholarship Test Workbooks today and help give you and your child the the tools and confidence to tackle every challenge.

References

1. Sydney Morning Herald. (2025, October 16). Girls and boys given equal places in selective schools under radical overhaul. Retrieved from https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/girls-and-boys-given-equal-places-in-selective-schools-under-radical-overhaul-20251016-p5n2yi.html

2. NSW Department of Education. (n.d.). Selective high schools and opportunity classes. Retrieved from https://education.nsw.gov.au/schooling/parents-and-carers/choosing-a-school-setting/selective-high-schools