Student opportunities and activities

Debating and Public Speaking

Debating and public speaking are important parts of our school’s learning culture, helping students build confidence, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. Our students participate in the Premier’s Debating Challenge, the Interschools Debating Competition, Debating Camp, and the Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking (MPPS) program. Through these opportunities, students learn to express their ideas clearly, listen respectfully to others, and develop the confidence to speak with purpose—skills that support their success both in and beyond the classroom.

Creative and Performing Arts

Our school offers a rich variety of Creative Arts opportunities that inspire students to express themselves and showcase their talents. From Wakakirri and whole-school performances to Choir, Primary Proms, and our unique Signing Choir, students are encouraged to explore music and performance in many forms. Creative expression also thrives through Drama Club, Culture Club, the String Ensemble, and our comprehensive Band Program. In addition, various community user programs provide even more avenues for students to develop their artistic skills and confidence. Together, these opportunities foster creativity, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation of the arts.

Student Leadership Opportunities

Our school provides a range of student leadership opportunities that encourage responsibility, teamwork, and pride in our school community. Programs such as DOVES, the Student Representative Council (SRC), Buddies, the Student Leadership Team, House Captains, and Band Captains give students the chance to develop confidence, lead by example, and make a positive impact. Through these roles, students learn valuable skills in communication, organisation, and collaboration while helping to create an inclusive and supportive school environment.

Sporting Opportunities

Our school offers a wide range of extra-curricular sporting opportunities that encourage participation, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. Students take part in the Hornsby Zone School Sport (HZSS) competitions, the Premier’s Sporting Challenge, and the P&C Fun Run, all of which promote fitness and school spirit. With the support of a specialist sports educator, students develop their skills across a variety of sports, while our Inclusive Sports Programs, delivered in partnership with external agencies, ensure that all students can participate and enjoy being active. The Learn to Swim Program further supports water safety and confidence, making sport and physical activity an important and enjoyable part of school life.

Chess

Chess is offered to students as part of our enrichment programs at Hornsby South Public School. The program caters for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players, and is designed to develop strategic thinking, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

Beginners and Intermediate
Students who are new to chess can join the beginners group, where they learn the fundamentals of the game in a supportive and engaging environment. Sessions are led by a professional coach from the Academy of Chess. Students explore strategies, discuss moves, and practise their skills through friendly games with their peers.

Advanced
Once students have mastered the basics, they can progress to the advanced chess group, which meets on Thursday mornings before school. In these sessions, students receive coaching in advanced strategies and tactics to further develop their skills and play more complex, competitive games.

Session Times for 2025:

• Wednesday: 12:55 pm – 1:40 pm
• Thursday: 12:55 pm – 1:40 pm

Earth Club

Earth Club is a popular activity where a group of enthusiastic students come together to learn about and take action for the environment. Earth Club encourages students to develop a sense of responsibility and care for the natural world through fun and educational activities such as growing succulents, recycling projects, litter clean-ups, gardening and creating awareness posters. By participating in the club, students not only gain knowledge but also become active citizens who contribute positively to their school and local community.

Band

Hornsby South has three bands, suited to all levels of musical experience: Training Band for students new to music, Concert Band for students with 12 months prior band experience and Performance Band for students with 2 years+ prior band experience. Students from Years 3 -6 are welcome to join the band program. Enrolments for new students open in Term 4 each school year for the following year - information about the enrolment process will be shared via the school newsletter and other communication channels at the time, or you can check here:  My School Band Enrolment