Cultural diversity and tolerance is an enduring feature of the Australian way of life. This is reflected in the community in the promotion of a 'multicultural Australia' and the wide acceptance of all peoples to this country from the world over. Pittwater House promotes acceptance and tolerance of all cultures, races and religions and encourages conformity with 'Australian-ness' in freedom of speech (generally in English), the rule of law and giving everyone a 'fair go'.
All members of the Pittwater House Family are encouraged to adopt an international outlook, communicate well with other cultures and develop an understanding of those who are on a short visit or staying to study with us. The School believes in a culturally rich curriculum, full involvement by all pupils in extra-curricular activities and in strong pastoral care. A special effort is made by all to make non-Australians welcome and to develop links with schools and communities abroad.
Pittwater House not only welcomes fee paying overseas students it also participates in a regular programme of overseas trips and cultural exchanges.
To preserve the fundamental Australian culture of Pittwater House in its Northern Beaches situation the number of overseas students in the School does not exceed 20% of the student population. Pittwater House offers the UNSW Foundation Year course primarily to overseas students and there is no cap on overseas enrolments in these programmes.
Pittwater House is well known around the world for the excellent educational philosophy of its Founder, Mr Rex Morgan, who is a regular contributor to international conferences on education and related topics. Mr Morgan is much sought after as a visiting educator to advise and officiate in schools throughout South East Asia.
Tuition Fees are set on an annual basis. View the 2009 International Student Fees and 2009 Term Dates.
Homestay accommodation is available in family homes in the local area. This is provided through an agency which has 200 quality, insured and inspected family homes.
Pastoral care is the cornerstone of the Pittwater House Schools philosophy. A hierarchy of care is provided commencing with the Form Teachers and working through to the Deans and Headmasters. There are staff on hand, including the Dean of Welfare (School Chaplain), who are available to assist pupils and parents at any time.
Miss Nicole Feledy is an experienced counsellor who has specific responsibility for international students. She regularly attends meetings and seminars to ensure that she remains up to date with all policy and welfare areas pertaining to the care of international students. Miss Feledy is also a trained English teacher and is highly regarded for her caring and understanding nature.
The School believes young people respond best when provided with a clear definition of their responsibilities, privileges and limitations and when they are aware of the consequences of their actions. A system of positive incentives operates to recognise achievement in the areas of academia, extra curricular, sports, community service and general citizenship. These accrue as 'credits' towards certificates acknowledging increasing levels of achievement. There is a clearly defined system of sanctions for pupils whose performance does not meet expectations. Pittwater House has a policy of zero tolerance to drugs and unacceptable behaviour.
Appropriate religious observance and moral training at the School is broadly based on the principles of the Anglican Church. Every pupil is expected to attend all ceremonies and services which include an act of corporate worship.
Affiliated Schools:
The Pittwater House Schools Ltd delivers the Foundation Year Certificate (PTW) programme under licence agreement from the University of New South Wales.
