The Friends’ School is a primary and secondary coeducational school founded in 1887 by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The Friends’ School, with an enrolment of more than 1300, has a very strong academic record, supported by recognition of the need to provide pastoral care at all levels of the school. In 2007, 98% of eligible students qualified for university entrance.

Location

The Friends’ School is located two kilometres from the central business district of Hobart, the capital of Tasmania.

Academic program

Students choose from a range of subjects to meet the requirement of the Tasmanian Certificate of Education or the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Accommodation

The Friends’ School provides on-campus accommodation or homestay programs. All international students are met at the airport.

Facilities

Friends’ facilities include comprehensive computer facilities, performing arts theatre, heated indoor swimming pool, circuit and weights gym, extensive sports grounds, gymnasium, tennis courts, basketball and netball courts, rowing complex and boat stock.

Special features

The International Student Support Committee and the student counsellors are available to assist students in settling into the school.

What the students say

‘The Friends’ School is a very good school for anybody who wants to spend a year in another country. I settled in very fast because there are many other international students, [from many countries] therefore the school is used to giving advice to help the students. The atmosphere in lessons is especially impressive because the relationship between students and teachers is very close and friendly.

For me, The Friends’ School was the right choice because I really enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere here.’

Eva—Germany

‘I loved the close and informal relationship between students and teachers, an aspect that only small schools such as The Friends’ School can provide. Coming from an independent, all boys school, the differences were very much appreciated.

There have been many opportunities outside of school to excel and I have greatly enjoyed all of them.’

Zhi—Singapore

‘Every student is valued as an individual, and cared for that way as well. Friends’ School, over my educational journey, has enriched me with new ideas, values and opportunities, alongside the normal courses.’

Benedikt—Germany

‘I think it is a very good place to study and learn many things about Australia. I have also travelled to so many beautiful places where I had never been before. The natural environment in Tasmania is excellent.’

Siwat—Thailand

And the parents

‘School should promote a love of learning and a love for life. I think Friends’ does this, and it is more than an ordinary school. With over six generations of the same families going to the school and an increase in enrolments each year, there must be something special that draws both newcomers and the older families back year after year.

I know my son is happy, very busy, and being challenged to the maximum in all areas, especially the academic subjects. I would recommend this school to anyone wondering what the next step will be in their teenager’s education.’

Jacoba—Japan