Throughout the Schools the traditional subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and Human Society, Geography, History and Commerce are emphasised. The curricula are based on the NSW Board of Studies documents with scope and sequence documents produced by the School staff.
Pittwater House offers subjects in each Key Learning Area of the NSW Board of Studies curriculum. All subjects lead to the NSW School Certificate after completing the State exam at the end of Year 10 and the NSW Higher School Certificate after completing the State exams at the end of Year 12.
All subjects offered in Years 7 and 8 are compulsory. Individual subject choice for pupils in Year 9 and above in both the Grammar School (boys) and Girls' College is outlined under 'Subject Selection Form 9 and 10' and 'Subject Selection 11 and 12'. These are 'elective subjects'.
For Years 11 and 12 subjects are defined in 'Units' for the NSW Higher School Certificate. Each candidate is required to undertake 12 Units in Year 11 (excluding extension subjects) and a minimum of 10 Units in Year 12. University entrance is calculated on a pupil's best 10 Units, including 2 Units of English. All subject choices should be discussed with the pupil's relevant Assistant Dean, Dean of College or Grammar, or the Dean of Studies during normal term time or for enrolling pupils at the time of the enrolment interview.
Mathematics tuition is offered to all pupils in the Secondary School free of charge. A member of the Mathematics faculty is available one afternoon per week from 3.30 - 5.00pm in the Library.
The educational thrust for Pittwater House pupils is to study independently and gain university entry. Gifted pupils are supported at a number of levels, from opportunities in the classroom to acceleration by subject or whole academic year.
Pastoral care is the keystone of the Pittwater House Schools philosophy. A hierarchy of care is provided commencing with the Form Teachers and working through to the Deans and the Headmaster. There are staff on hand, including the Dean of Welfare (School Chaplain), who are available to assist pupils and parents at any time.
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 (e.g. bullying).
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.
