Sydney Schools: Semester Start Update September 2026

Sydney schools have commenced the 2026 semester with expanded programs and new facilities across the metropolitan area. The NSW Department of Education has confirmed that all public schools are operating normally, with new programs and facilities in place for the semester.

Public schools

The NSW Department of Education has opened the 2026 semester with expanded programs across Sydney's public school network. Several schools have opened new facilities, including updated science laboratories, technology rooms, and sports facilities. The department has allocated additional funding for school infrastructure upgrades across the metropolitan area.

Sydney's public school system serves a diverse student population, with schools across the CBD, eastern suburbs, inner west, and western suburbs all reporting strong enrolment figures. The Western Sydney Airport opening on 25 October is expected to increase demand for school places in the western corridor, and the NSW Government has announced plans for new school openings in the aerotropolis precinct.

Private and selective schools

Sydney's private and selective school sector has also commenced the semester with expanded programs. Several schools have opened new facilities and introduced updated curricula focused on STEM and digital literacy. The city's private schools continue to attract families from across the metropolitan area, with enrolment figures remaining strong across the sector.

The NSW Government has invested in school infrastructure, including new classrooms, sports facilities, and technology upgrades. The funding supports both public and private schools across the metropolitan area, ensuring that Sydney's growing population has access to quality education.

What to expect

The semester outlook is positive, with all schools reporting strong enrolment figures and operational readiness. The NSW Department of Education publishes school enrolment and performance data. The Australian Bureau of Statistics releases education statistics quarterly.

Explore Sydney city coverage at The City hub

Read about Sydney education at the City hub

Discover more about Sydney infrastructure at the Infrastructure hub

The NSW Department of Education publishes school data at NSW Department of Education. The Australian Bureau of Statistics releases education statistics at Australian Bureau of Statistics. The NSW Government education funding details are available at NSW Government.