In acknowledging all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their continued connection to land, water and community, the design of this publication celebrates the iconic landscapes of our country, honouring the cultural and environmental significance of these natural wonders.
Pembroke School is a unique learning and caring environment where students are free to be themselves and find their place. We educate hearts and minds, inspiring the learners of today to become the shapers of tomorrow.
Just 3.5 kilometres from Adelaide’s CBD:
Pembroke is an Early Learning to Year 12 co-educational, non-denominational day and boarding school nestled in leafy Kensington Park, just 3.5km east of Adelaide’s CBD. Our School is proudly independent, with inclusivity and authenticity at our core. Pembroke’s heritage reaches back over a century to our founding institutions – Girton Girls’ School and King’s College for boys – which united under a progressive vision for co-education by establishing Pembroke over 50 years ago.
Our School is characterised by high expectations and opportunity for all. We set the bar high, valuing the stretch of academic challenge and personal excellence for every student, leveraging our scale to provide abundant curriculum offerings.
These include the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) and International Baccalaureate
(IB) Diploma pathways, our bespoke Middle School curriculum, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) in Junior School and our language pathways across the Sub-Schools.
Pembroke staff are experts in their fields, dedicated to the education, care and progress of every student. As a non-denominational school, we embrace spiritual, moral and ethical dimensions, focusing on what connects us as humans.
The foundation of our School is our diverse community. Through our co-educational journey and our inclusive culture, we recognise that we are stronger together. We hope your introduction to our School engages your hearts and minds, and we warmly welcome your family to join us for the next incredible chapter of the Pembroke story.
Mark Staker Principal
Mark Staker commenced as Pembroke Principal in July 2022. He is a highly experienced and accomplished educational leader with undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in English, History, Communications and Educational Leadership.
Before arriving at Pembroke, Mark served as Senior Deputy Principal at Wenona School in North Sydney where he worked closely with the Principal and School Board of Governors on all matters of school leadership and management, with particular emphasis on leading the innovative staff culture of learning.
Throughout Mark’s extensive career, he has held leadership roles across diverse areas such as Student Wellbeing, Professional Learning, and Teaching and Learning. He is thoroughly committed to developing a school culture that values relationships and fosters personal excellence through continual improvement within a respectful and caring community.
Mark is passionate about all things Pembroke and is looking forward to advancing the School with a community co-designed strategy to elevate Pembroke’s position as a world-class provider of quality, inclusive co-education.
The Pembroke School Aims emerge from our rich heritage and underpin all of our educational endeavours:
• To offer our students the means to develop a broad and deep knowledge base thus enabling them to act effectively as well-informed citizens.
• To create a dynamic learning community which encourages self-management, curiosity, intellectual rigour, enjoyment, innovation and the exploration of each individual’s potential.
• To facilitate the social, physical and emotional development of each student emphasising student safety, personal growth, integrity, respect for differences in people, resilience, an appreciation of the environment, a sense of social responsibility and care for others.
• To encourage the exploration of students’ spiritual values and their power to make ethical decisions.
• To promote thoughtful, respectful and informed participation in the community locally, nationally and internationally with an emphasis on seeking justice for all.
Our Class of 2024 reinforced our legacy of academic excellence with these incredible results:
Proud of Each Student
Three of our outstanding Year 12 students achieved a perfect score in 2024. Our Dux of SACE James Le recorded 7 Merits, resulting in his 99.95 ATAR. In the IB Diploma Programme, our 2024 School Co-Captain Enoch Osei-Tutu and fellow Pembroke graduate Luca Shin scored 45 out of 45 (99.95 ATAR equivalent). As well as receiving the highest grade of 7 for each of their subjects, they also achieved A grades for both Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay.
Beyond SACE and IB, 28 Pembroke students completed one or more semesters of university studies, with 4 participating in the University of Adelaide’s Headstart program, 20 in the Flinders University Extension Studies program and 4 through the UniSA ACCELERATE program. Of these, 15 students achieved a High Distinction in two semesters, giving them a perfect scaled score of 20.0 towards their university aggregate, while 9 received a Distinction or more in two semesters, giving them a scaled score of 19.8 or 19.9 towards their university aggregate. In total, our students earned a phenomenal 50 High Distinctions/Distinctions.
2024 was also another fantastic year for Pembroke students undertaking Vocational Education and Training, with 80 completing a VET course in conjunction with their SACE studies.
The remarkable results and achievements reflect the commitment and dedication of our amazing students, devoted teachers and supportive families who work in partnership to reach these significant milestones in the lifelong learning journey.
At Pembroke, we ignite hearts and minds through our learning and caring culture.
This is being enshrined through our Strategic Plan 2030 which features the development of a Pembroke Learning and Caring Framework to nurture a love of learning across the School. Other strategic initiatives include our CARE Program which will deliver social, emotional and service learning from ELC to Year 12, a reimagined, personalised and data-driven Inclusive Education Program for diverse learners, and the revitalisation of the Pembroke Chapel Program reinforcing spiritual, moral and ethical development while fostering interfaith understanding in a pluralistic society.
Student wellbeing is core to our learning and caring culture which embraces difference and diversity of experience and character. In Junior School, our dedicated educators guide our youngest learners from ELC to Year 6, working in close partnership with parents to ensure each child is known, cared for and connected, and leading social and emotional learning programs with a strong focus on skill development.
As students enter and progress through Middle School, the House system and Home Groups provide a home base for social, emotional and spiritual development. In Senior School, we facilitate the shift to a young adult pre-university campus, with recalibrated pastoral care where collaboration, shared experiences and peer modelling are embraced by our Year 11 and 12 students. Home Groups are also a cornerstone in Boarding, which we regard as our fourth Sub-School and cultivate as a home away from home for our boarders.
Our pastoral care structures are supported by various age-specific platforms including an exceptional Health program across Years 7 to 9, our Social, Emotional and Personal Development (SEPD) program for Years 10 to 12 exploring mental health, wellbeing, respectful relationships and social responsibility, and our extensive outdoor education offerings – including our very own Environmental Education Centre on the Finniss River – fostering life skills and personal growth.
Our students are guided by a broad network of professionals including our Dean of Student Wellbeing, Head of Student Wellbeing (Junior School), Head of Inclusive Education, Psychologists, Pembroke Counselling Team and Registered Nurses who work in tandem with our Class Teachers, Home Group Teachers, Heads of House and Year Level Coordinators.
Additional support comes in the form of four-legged friends, with Pembroke’s faithful team of Wellbeing Dogs bringing care and comfort across our campuses. To complement our internal resources, the School regularly engages the expertise of visiting professionals for our students, and also for our parents through our Pembroke and Parents Partnership featuring information evenings on relevant topics for families.
Student leadership opportunities abound across the Sub-Schools where student voice sets the agenda, engaging young citizens in vibrant democracy and preparing them for life beyond school. Together with leadership, Pembroke’s learning and caring culture reinforces a steadfast commitment to service. Serving others, both locally and globally, is another imperative of our Strategic Plan 2030, with an ELC to Year 12 Service Learning Framework aimed at ensuring students experience the impact of their agency in shaping a hopeful future.
Adelaide, the vibrant capital of South Australia, is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities.
Renowned for national and international Arts, cultural and sporting festivals, the city is a pulsating heart of energy and diversity complemented by globally acclaimed food and hospitality.
For international students, Adelaide is an ideal destination to live and study as it offers a safe and friendly environment, affordable cost of living, reliable public transport, lively recreational activities, and wonderful places to visit such as our beautiful beaches and charming Adelaide Hills.
With a domestic and international airport, Adelaide features daily direct or connected flights to destinations around the country and the world, including excellent accessibility with Asia and the Middle East.
Pembroke is nestled in Adelaide’s leafy eastern suburbs which are highly regarded for safety and community against a backdrop of stunning parks, ovals and tree-lined boulevards. This prized location is just a few kilometres from the city and within walking distance of The Parade, Norwood retail, hospitality and entertainment district.
Adelaide is internationally recognised as a leader in education across early learning, schooling, boarding, Vocational Education and Training (VET) and tertiary studies. With the latter, Flinders University has amassed more than half a century of excellence in education and research, while the forthcoming merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia will create Adelaide University, becoming the largest domestic educator of students in Australia.
Pembroke’s strong tertiary connections assist dozens of our senior students each year in undertaking local university studies in addition to their schooling commitments, and our collaboration with these institutions as well as residential colleges allows us to provide superior transition and orientation support for our boarding graduates who wish to further their studies in South Australia.
Career opportunities also abound in South Australia which is a world leader in various industries and sectors including health, agriculture, resources, renewable energy, technology, advanced manufacturing, space, tourism, gastronomy, and of course, education.
When you first arrive in Australia, make sure you have enough money to cover initial expenses such as School uniforms and personal spending. These costs are detailed in your Written Agreement. It is safest to bring your money as traveller’s cheques or on an international debit card. Traveller’s cheques can be cashed at banks or currency exchanges in Australia.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash as it is not safe. Lost debit cards or traveller’s cheques can usually be replaced, but cash is rarely covered by travel insurance or other insurance.
Automated teller machines (ATMs) are widely available, and you should be able to withdraw money from your overseas bank account if the ATM displays the Cirrus logo. Check with your bank before leaving to confirm access.
International students at Pembroke have two main living options:
• Students can live with a parent or a nominated relative/guardian
• If the parent or relative is not a resident of Australia, they will need a guardianship visa
• Students can live in Pembroke’s Boarding House where they will be provided with full board including three meals a day
• The Boarding House offers a supportive environment where students can live with others and engage in both academic and social activities
• Living in the Boarding House allows students to become part of the Pembroke community, experience Australian family life and receive care and support in a comfortable, structured setting
Click here for more information about Pembroke Boarding.
Pembroke School is located just 3.5km east of Adelaide’s CBD in picturesque Kensington Park.
Pembroke provides recognised qualifications through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), helping students achieve their academic goals while preparing for future pathways. Students in our Boarding House benefit from a supportive community, a comfortable home away from home and access to excellent facilities. With Adelaide’s affordable cost of living, reliable public transport and opportunities to explore local culture, students can thrive academically while enjoying a well-rounded life experience.
Our King’s Campus on The Parade is home to our Middle School, and our Girton Campus to the east comprises our Junior School and Senior School. The campuses are located within 5 minutes’ walk of each other and are connected by Kensington Oval which Pembroke leases and maintains as part of our vibrant Sports Program.
Across the road from our King’s Campus, Pembroke owns the Haslam Oval Precinct, a stunning parcel of land earmarked for exciting future development to further elevate our Sports Program and community engagement. Our main Boarding House is located next to Haslam Oval, and the other is situated within our Girton Campus.
Due to our central location, our day students come from across Adelaide’s metropolitan area including many who take advantage of our School Bus Service or public transport, and our Boarding students join us from a range of locations around the state, the country and the world.
Our campuses feature superb grounds which are meticulously maintained to the highest standard. With a brilliant blend of historic and modern architecture, the School has a strong commitment to providing learning environments which are inspiring, purpose-built and state-of-the-art. One of our recent major developments is the spectacular Shipsters Road building for Middle School Art, Science, Design and Digital Technology.
In 2024, Pembroke transformed the John Moody Centre, opening the doors to the new John Moody Dining Room for boarders and other guests, the King’s Café for Middle School students and staff, and Yellow Submarine Too – a social enterprise café open to the public.
One of the elements that truly sets Pembroke apart is Old Watulunga, our stunning Environmental Education Centre on the Finniss River just over an hour’s drive south of the School. This incredible 17-hectare property is a key learning habitat for many of our Middle School students who embark on signature camps where they develop skills in kayaking, sailing, bushwalking, rock climbing and orienteering, making the most of the great outdoors while building foundations for personal growth and development.
Pembroke has a proud history of boarding, welcoming students from around Australia and the world to their home away from home.
Boarding is a unique opportunity to live in a strong and diverse community where we provide outstanding care for students in an atmosphere of friendship and fun. Pembroke Boarding offers accommodation for girls and boys from Years 7 to 12 across two residential facilities: the main Pembroke Boarding House situated next to Pembroke’s Haslam Oval and across the road from the Middle School King’s Campus, and Turner House on Girton Campus which is specifically designed for many of our senior boarders, complementing the Senior School’s young adult pre-university environment.
While boarders cannot access residential wings other than their own, large common recreational areas provide opportunities for boy and girl boarders to socialise together. Safety and security are our highest priority, with staff on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Boarding staff and teachers communicate regularly with parents about the progress of their child, and Boarding staff work with boarders to provide pastoral care and academic support. Our boarders are cared for by House Supervisors and Assistants who are on hand day and night to assist students with their needs. Each boarder is a member of a close-knit, mixed gender group of about 12 boarders led by a dedicated Boarding staff member and two group Captains from Year 12. These groups meet regularly to discuss issues that arise, contribute to the running of the Boarding House and coordinate group events. There is also a weekly Boarding House meeting with direction from the two Boarding Captains.
A Boarding student’s daily routine is aimed at ensuring a balanced and organised approach to school, homework, sport, co-curricular and weekend activities, as well as prioritising time to relax, socialise and have fun. The School has a flexible approach to parents visiting and students obtaining weekend leave with parent permission.
Boarding at Pembroke offers a convenient, central location as it is only a few kilometres from Adelaide’s CBD and features easy access to public transport. Facilities include a stunning al fresco area, the School pool and Haslam Oval, and the new Boarders’ Dining Room on our King’s Campus. A firm of professional caterers provides boarders with excellent meals where the weekly menu is healthy, varied and created specifically for the nutritional needs of fast-growing teenagers.
Our students leave the Pembroke Boarding experience with a lifetime of memories and connections, and primed to take on the world.
Students applying for admission to the Boarding House will have an interview with the Principal, Head of Boarding, Head of Sub-School and or delegate/s.
Click here for more information about Pembroke Boarding.
The Pembroke Connect Program (PCP) is designed to support recently arrived international students as they prepare for study at Pembroke School. The program focuses on improving students’ English skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, while also helping them understand Australian culture and the education system.
The PCP is intended for students applying from Year 7 who require additional English language preparation. The Coordinator of International Students, English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Homestay will interview prospective PCP students either in person or via online video conferencing. During the interview, students are required to provide two past school reports and any other relevant documentation. Based on the interview, a recommendation will be made regarding how long the student should participate in the PCP before joining mainstream classes.
The PCP staff closely monitor each student’s progress and provide regular updates to parents and caregivers at the end of each term. Student progress is assessed using the ACARA Language and Literacy Levels, which track the development of Standard Australian English skills needed to meet the requirements of the Australian Curriculum.
The program covers a wide range of topics including:
• An overview of the Australian education system
• Cultural comparisons between Australia and other countries
• Australian sense of humour, politics and democracy
• Australian multiculturalism, sports culture and history including Indigenous culture
Students also learn about the pastoral care support available at Pembroke and how to access academic resources to aid their learning.
While in the PCP, students fully participate in school life by wearing the School Uniform and attending House and Home Group meetings, assemblies, excursions and camps. They are encouraged to take part in co and extra-curricular activities including in our Sports Program and our Music Program, the latter of which features individual instrumental lessons, choirs, ensembles and bands.
PCP students are also enrolled in at least two subjects alongside their mainstream cohort, typically including Mathematics and subjects such as Physical Education or Art. The specific subjects vary depending on the student’s year level and the school timetable. This integration helps PCP students connect with their peers and make friends in preparation for a smooth transition to full-time mainstream study.
• For students applying for a student visa, time spent in the PCP is considered part of their Years 7 - 10 course, so a separate Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is not required.
• When submitting an online application for Pembroke School, families should indicate when they wish to start at Pembroke, including their time in the PCP, rather than when they hope to begin mainstream classes. The commencement date on the offer letter will include the student’s time in the PCP.
• Participation in the PCP is included in the tuition fees, so no additional payment is required.
• If the initial interview with the Coordinator of International Students, EAL and Homestay is conducted more than 12 months before the intended start date, another interview will usually take place closer to the start. The Admissions Department will coordinate this with the family.
The study of languages extends our students’ access to their world. Students learn to communicate through new languages and to understand new cultures, worldviews and ways of life.
Students also acquire transferable cognitive, social and learning skills along with an understanding of grammatical concepts which enhances their literacy in English.
From Reception to Year 6, students study Spanish (which is offered through to Year 12). In the Junior School, we also offer co-curricular languages programs in Mandarin, French, Italian and Hindi to support students to maintain and develop languages skills that may be fostered at home.
Across Years 7 to 12, subjects span Mandarin, French, German, Spanish and Kaurna – the Indigenous language of the Adelaide region. Both Indonesian and Spanish are available as beginner courses in Years 11 and 12. Mandarin Chinese is offered in three different pathways for Second Language, Background Language and First Language learners.
New co-curricular options include Latin, Italian and Hindi, with additional plans for Greek and Polish.
In the Senior School, the study of a language is compulsory if the student is undertaking the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. In the SACE, a range of languages are offered as options, and the study of other languages within the SACE or IB may be possible via external arrangements.
Students with a substantial background in French may accelerate their studies through intensive exposure to the language over four years (Years 7-10). Following the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) model, students acquire language through the study of other subjects using the target language. Students in the program attend an average of two lessons per day taught entirely in French. Subjects which qualify may include History, Geography, Art, Drama as well as French Language and Literature.
To support students to deepen their knowledge of other languages and connection to cultures from their family background, co-curricular programs are available for Years 2 to 10 in Italian and Hindi, with plans in development for Greek and Polish. Latin may also be selected as a co-curricular option from Years 5 to 9.
Students receive a well-rounded education that gives them an appreciation of both their own lives and those of others. International trips, student exchanges and experiential learning programs are central to the opportunities that Pembroke provides.
These include:
• Spanish language and cultural immersion tour to Spain
• Spanish language exchange to Chile
• French school Homestay experience in France
• German language exchange to Germany
• Chinese language and culture immersion tour
• Kaurna camp in Kaurna Country
These co-curricular experiences give our students the chance to explore new cultures, develop language and communication skills, and make lifelong memories.
Experiential learning is a hallmark of a Pembroke education, with adventurous journeys empowering personal growth and preparation for life post-school.
Through our signature suite of camps, trips and exchanges, our students move beyond their comfort zone and thrive in dynamic and divergent team settings while embracing new passions and discoveries.
Our Outdoor Education Program complements the academic and co-curricular life of the School by providing enjoyment of and respect for the outdoors, sustainability, and social and personal development. The Junior School Camping Program includes visits and stays at locations such as Kangaroo Island, the Murraylands, the Adelaide Hills and the Mid North of South Australia.
The outdoor education base for the Middle School is Old Watulunga (pictured left), Pembroke’s own 17-hectare property on the Finniss River just over an hour’s drive south of Adelaide where Years 7, 8 and 10 participate in age-appropriate camps featuring kayaking, sailing, bushwalking, rock climbing and orienteering. Year 9 students enjoy a camp on Yorke Peninsula, with activities including coastal exploration, bushwalking and aquatic pursuits.
Senior School students can study Outdoor Education as a SACE Stage 1 and Stage 2 subject, providing the opportunity to build on their skills and knowledge acquired in Middle School. This is a rigorous program focused on developing extensive skills, knowledge, positive impacts on wellbeing and a lifelong connection with the outdoors. Pursuits range from surfing, rock climbing and white water rafting to kayaking, bushwalking and snorkelling, with locations including Mount Arapiles in Victoria, the Australian Alps, Kangaroo Island, Flinders Ranges and Beachport.
Students studying the IB subject Environmental Systems and Societies undertake a cultural and environmental immersion experience at Kakadu in the Northern Territory hosted by traditional owners and Pembroke community members.
One of the most significant adventures on Pembroke’s camping calendar is our unique exchange with Marree Aboriginal School in outback South Australia. Students visit each other’s schools and stay in the community through this treasured partnership which began with a Geography excursion to Marree three decades ago. Each year, approximately 20 Pembroke Middle School students embark on a transformational 5-day journey, sleeping in swags, exploring the Australian outback and learning about Aboriginal culture. The deep connections they form with the local school children are what make this trip truly special, with many participants describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A new addition to our suite of travel is the incredible Beyond the Horizon program where our Year 9 students can opt to visit and connect with remote communities through meaningful service opportunities and cultural immersion while undertaking an intrepid adventure. Scores of students set off in the October school holiday period on one of the trips being offered, with destinations featuring the Pilbara, East Kimberley region, New South Wales South Coast, Southeast Queensland and Far North Queensland. Service activities are many and varied such as delivering meals to people experiencing homelessness, supporting Indigenous students in schools and youth hubs, and contributing to wildlife rehabilitation and conservation projects.
Other travel opportunities enjoyed by Pembroke students span language immersion trips to Spain, Germany, France and China, exchange programs with partner schools in South Africa, Chile and more, music and sport tours, ski adventures including to Japan, and a host of field trips capturing curriculum areas such as Geography, Tourism, Biology, Literature and History. In essence, connecting with and developing respect for communities locally, nationally and internationally is part of the Pembroke experience, and the skills and traits learnt during these adventures further prepare our students for their lives beyond school.
Through The Arts at Pembroke, students are inspired to find new ways of seeing and interpreting their worlds.
Visual Art, Drama and Music form the core Arts subjects offered to all students from ELC to Year 12 (SACE and IB). In addition, Film is offered as a subject from Years 10 to 12 (SACE and IB) and Dance is an option in Year 8 and as a SACE Stage 1 subject in Year 10. Pembroke has a proud history of outstanding results in Arts subjects, with a host of SACE and IB Merits awarded to our students year after year.
Pembroke’s long-standing Artist-in-Residence initiative and our more recent Resident and Visiting Creatives Program allow students to work with industry professionals and to observe artists in action both at school and in the wider community. A busy co-curricular program expands on The Arts curriculum, encouraging all students at Pembroke to enjoy artistic experiences and become involved in the presentation of public performances, film screenings and exhibitions.
Music offers a plethora of ensemble and solo performance opportunities for students and is a widely enjoyed pursuit at Pembroke. Special events include the Junior School Soiree, Generations in Jazz festival in Mount Gambier, our own Jazz Cabaret, Showcase Concert, Winter Festival of Music, Spring Fling concert, Pembroke Live – Rock School, and Carols in the Quad. Internationally acclaimed artists frequently collaborate with our students for these celebrated performances.
Ensembles run as co-curriculars with the following on offer:
• Junior School – Concert Band; String Ensembles; Rock Bands; Percussion Ensembles; Guitar Ensemble; Chamber Ensembles
• Middle/Senior Schools – Big Band; Stage Band; Concert Band; Wind Ensemble; Symphony Orchestra; Chinese Orchestra; String Orchestras; Chamber Ensembles; Saxophone Ensembles; Guitar Ensemble; Percussion Ensembles; Concert Choir; Chamber Choir; Jazz Choir; Rock School
Individual Music Tuition is also available with private tutors for the following instruments:
• Brass – Euphonium; French Horn; Trombone; Trumpet; Tuba
• Guitar – Bass; Classical; Electric
• Percussion – Drum Kit; Mallet Percussion
• Piano – Classical; Contemporary; Jazz
• Strings – Cello; Double Bass; Erhu (other traditional Chinese instruments may be available); Viola; Violin
• Voice – Classical; Jazz; Modern
• Woodwind – Clarinet; Flute; Oboe; Saxophone
The incredible work of our Visual Art students is celebrated at Pembroke, with the annual Middle School Art Exhibition and Year 11-12 SACE/ IB Art Exhibition featuring as flagship events in our Arts calendar. Student work is proudly displayed throughout the School in our Art rooms, Bills House, Angove House and sculpture gardens. Anna Horne became our first Artist-in-Residence to work with students in our stunning Shipsters Road building for Art, Science, Design and Digital Technology, and Anna’s work is displayed alongside pieces by other Artists-in-Residence, complementing our own students’ work inspired by this residency program.
Pembroke’s Drama Program is inclusive and diverse. Staging both a Year 2 and Year 5 Musical each year provides our younger students with early experience of storytelling through theatre. The biennial Middle School Musical is a highlight for many students during their adolescent years, and the Year 11 and Year 12 Productions are of such high quality that they have launched the careers of many award-winning actors and production designers.
Our highly successful Film Program has grown exponentially over the past few years. Students can study Film in both Middle and Senior Schools for a semester or a full year. Our Film Program challenges students to develop their awareness of fundamental concepts through an exploration of historical and contemporary filmmakers within a global context. Students apply their theoretical understanding and use industry-standard equipment to create film products for various purposes and genres. Our annual Unreel Film Festival allows students to showcase their achievements and share their work with the broader Pembroke community.
Dance is a growing discipline in Pembroke’s Arts Program, with performance opportunities across ELC to Year 12, and more formal learning through Dance and Dance Studies subject options in Year 8, and Dance A, B (SACE Stage 1) in Year 10. We look forward to seeing our students shine on stage as Dance continues to increase in profile at Pembroke.
Sport is a fundamental part of life at Pembroke. Students are encouraged to participate in the multitude of opportunities on offer, and we are proud that nearly all of our students choose to play one or more sports.
The emphasis of sport at Pembroke is to uphold an inclusive and supportive sporting culture that not only leads to personal best performances, but also the important and lasting benefits to mental and physical health.
The Sports Program allows individuals to experiment with new sports, no matter the level of skill, and encourages seasoned competitors to improve capabilities and achieve at higher levels. Boys and girls are equally involved in sport at Pembroke, and the School supports gender equity in the range of sporting activities available. Teaching staff are heavily involved in Pembroke sports as coaches or managers, backed by highly accredited head coaches.
Pembroke’s bespoke Athlete Development Program nurtures athletically talented students by honing practical skills, strength conditioning, training principles and sports science theory. Candidates undergo an application and interview process to secure a place in this elite elective subject which is offered in Years 9 and 10. The program provides a customised opportunity for Middle School student athletes to develop their skills within the curriculum program in addition to their chosen co-curricular activities and participation in elite level sports beyond the School. Specialised coaches and experts deliver guidance in strength and conditioning, high performance skill sessions, long-term athlete development and tactical development. Talented athletes are also well catered for in Senior School, empowered to successfully complete their secondary education with tailored support and pathways.
Indeed, many of our exceptional athletes go on to achieve incredible feats at school and beyond. We are immensely proud of students and old scholars who perform at elite levels, representing their state and country in a wide variety of sporting disciplines such as Football, Cricket, Hockey, Equestrian, Rowing, Water Polo, Cycling and Diving.
Sports on offer at Pembroke:
• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball
• Bouldering
• Cricket / Kanga Cricket
• Cross Country
• Equestrian
• Fitness and Conditioning
• Football
• Hockey
• Mountain Biking
• Netball
• Pilates
• Rowing
• Running Club
• Soccer
• Squash
• Swimming
• T-Ball (Junior School)
• Table Tennis
• Tennis
• Touch Football
• Triathlon
• Volleyball
• Water Polo
Located within our Girton Campus, our Junior School offers students in Reception to Year 6 the opportunity to be challenged, supported and creative.
CRICOS Course Code: 033997K
We aim to nurture the growth of every child by offering experiences for academic, creative, social, emotional and physical development. We view each learner as unique. Our inclusive School culture is founded on the belief that shared and respectful understandings between students, teachers and parents create enriching academic and wellbeing benefits for all children.
Our commitment to honest and regular communication supports connections and relationships within our School community.
Best practice Literacy and Numeracy programs are a hallmark of a Pembroke education, and our Junior School blends the Australian Curriculum with the respected International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), a curriculum framework applied by hundreds of schools around the world.
The Junior School teaching team and program are guided by contemporary educational research. We work in partnership with tertiary institutions to continually improve our approach in all areas of the curriculum. The intake years for the Junior School are Reception and Year 5, with occasional vacancies arising in other year levels.
As well as having a Class Teacher dedicated to their learning journey, our Junior School students enjoy a wonderful selection of specialist-taught programs. A highlight is Spanish which is studied from Reception to Year 6 and is offered as a language pathway at Pembroke through to Year 12. Other areas of curriculum focus are Library, Music, Drama, Art, Physical Education and Health, and students also have a vast choice of co-curricular activities across The Arts, Sport and much more. Stimulating and collaborative learning opportunities include staged musical productions for Year 2 and Year 5, a biennial Artist-in-Residence program, an exciting excursion and camp program, participation in interschool events and the IB PYP Exhibition.
In our Junior School, we believe all young people have leadership potential and we provide a variety of experiences and opportunities to develop student agency. This includes informal roles such as buddy class responsibilities, environmental warrior duties, student-led tours and new student buddy roles, as well as formal roles, such as House Leader and Community Service Leader, where students apply for a position based on a duty statement.
Junior School families can also access Before/After School Care and Vacation Care.
Our Middle School caters for Years 7 to 10 on our King’s Campus where we enshrine our strong belief that when adolescents enjoy their learning, they thrive.
CRICOS Course Code: 004795E
These crucial years are a time for personal discovery, and at Pembroke, we support each student to explore both prior and emerging passions, interests and capabilities. It is a time where our students can reaffirm their place in the world, or reimagine themselves in a safe and supportive setting.
Pembroke provides a dynamic learning environment in which all students come to understand they can take risks and will be encouraged in their efforts to think, create, explore their curiosity, self-manage and reflect on their learning. We believe our approach enables our young people to grow and develop academically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.
Students are supported in their learning by enthusiastic skilled teachers, first-class facilities and excellent resource allocation. The curriculum in our Middle School includes a rich offering of core disciplines and specialist subjects that provide the foundation for a successful transition to our Senior School. Language learning is a highlight, with options including Mandarin Chinese, French, German and Spanish, all of which can be continued through to Year 12. In Years 7 to 9, students can elect to study Kaurna, the Indigenous language of the Adelaide region. Our Middle School students enjoy regular learning within our new world-class teaching facility for Art, Science, Design and Digital Technology on Shipsters Road. In addition, our new career education program – Future Pathways – supports students as they begin to contemplate life beyond school.
Each student is allocated to a House and Home Group in Year 7 and this House remains their ‘home base’ until they graduate. The eight Houses provide welcoming, nurturing and reliable spaces for pastoral, service, inter-House sporting and cultural pursuits, and outdoor education activities. Students are further guided by a robust Health program across Years 7 to 9, and Year 10 students commence our Social, Emotional and Personal Development (SEPD) program which accompanies them through to Year 12.
Middle School students are encouraged to recognise character strengths in their peers and to develop their own strengths. Our Student Voice Executive and Representatives are integrally involved in student governance and leadership in the Middle School. They speak at weekly assemblies and in House and Home Group meetings, lead tour groups, assist at Junior School sporting events, and champion the Causes Project which upholds advocacy, awareness-raising, philanthropy and action for those in need.
Click here to view Middle School subjects.
Our Senior School based on Girton Campus offers a carefully curated, young adult pre-university environment for Year 11 and 12 students to develop as independent learners and active citizens through extensive preparation and support for life beyond school.
The culture is collaborative, with staff and students working together towards achieving specific academic and personal goals. Students access services, harness resources and take part in programs specifically designed to meet the needs of emerging adults.
Senior students can select from two study pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) or the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). As the majority of our students will ultimately enrol in university, some seize the opportunity to complete one or more semesters of university studies while at school. Students may also prepare for the workforce or for studies in technical and further education via Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses offered alongside or embedded in SACE subjects. Course selection and career planning are a key focus in our Senior School where students are supported by our new career education program, Future Pathways.
The individual learning and care of each student is overseen through the Home Group system. These are the pastoral care units, comprised of approximately 18 Year 11 and 12 students, which are led by one or two Home Group Teachers. Ideally, students stay in this group for the full two years of Senior School. The mixed year level composition of the Home Groups promotes the development of students in a more mature environment, where collaboration, shared experiences and peer modelling form strong supports for the academic life of the School. The Home Group Teacher is the vital link between home and school as the primary contact for the students in their group. Year Level Coordinators and Heads of House offer another layer of care, guidance and knowledge in relation to each student.
To support wellbeing, all students undertake a carefully crafted Social, Emotional and Personal Development (SEPD) course. In Year 11, this runs for the full year in addressing contemporary issues around maintaining physical health, managing wellbeing, seeking support, and appreciating respectful and fulfilling relationships.
In Year 12, the SEPD program runs for the first semester, building capacity as students begin the transition out of schooling by exploring their rights and responsibilities as young citizens, financial literacy and maintaining healthy relationships.
While not compulsory, the majority of students in the Senior School take part in the breadth of co-curricular activities on offer at Pembroke, reflecting the spirited culture of this thriving learning habitat. Leadership opportunities are plentiful in Senior School, in particular through our Student Staff Executive (SSE) which is comprised of the School’s Captains and Vice Captains, Boarding Captains, Music Captains, Sports Captains and other passionate student leaders. As well as supporting with events such as the Senior School Formal, the SSE provides student voice and action on school matters and more global concerns such as the environment and social justice, empowering and preparing our students to be change agents for a more hopeful future.
CRICOS Course Code: 004796D
The South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is a high quality, internationally recognised pre-university program that opens pathways leading to vocations and careers, further studies and employment. In South Australia, it is the basic requirement for entry to higher education.
The structure of the SACE is aligned closely with the needs of students, families, higher and further education providers, employers and the community. This structure is designed to help students to develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in our modern context and to engage as worthwhile members of their local and global communities. The SACE offers a significant diversity of subjects for study, as well as diverse approaches to learning and assessment, especially in the area of recognition of community learning.
There is an emphasis on students actively planning their chosen academic pathway for the senior years, in collaboration with their parents, teachers and community mentors. Students can choose to specialise in certain key areas of interest or to maintain a breadth of subjects in these final years, incorporating some of the more flexible elements such as Vocational Education and Training subjects accredited within the SACE program.
Click here to view SACE subject s.
CRICOS Course Code: 106962B
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an internationally respected and recognised pre-university qualification that provides an alternative to the SACE.
The Diploma offers a rigorous and challenging academic curriculum which prepares students for effective participation in a rapidly evolving global society. The IBDP ensures that students acquire both breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding as they study courses from six subject groups. This includes the study of their own and another language, thus increasing students’ understanding of cultures, including their own.
Students also study Mathematics as well as courses from the Sciences, Humanities and The Arts. In addition, students learn to make connections across the academic disciplines and explore the nature of knowledge through the Theory of Knowledge course, undertake in-depth research into an area of interest in the Extended Essay, and enhance their personal and interpersonal development through their own program of Creativity, Activity, Service.
The IBDP aims to produce young people who are self-motivated and intellectually curious with proven ability in a range of academic fields as well as being creative, active and compassionate members of our society. IB students acquire the skills and attitudes towards learning which will see them achieve in higher education and become lifelong learners. They are invariably involved in many community and school activities and are interested in making a difference in their community and the world at large.
Click here to view IB subjects .
The Australian Government is committed to providing international students with a safe, enjoyable and rewarding study experience in Australia. To achieve this, Australia’s laws promote high-quality education and consumer protection for international students under the ESOS Framework, which includes the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the National Code 2018.
International students holding a student visa must study with a CRICOS-registered education provider and course. This guarantees that both the course and provider meet the rigorous standards required for international students.
The ESOS Framework ensures the protection of your rights including:
• Written Agreement: You are entitled to a written agreement with Pembroke School before or at the time of fee payment, detailing the services provided, fees payable and tuition fee refund policies. Keep a copy of this agreement.
• Consumer Protection: If Pembroke School cannot deliver your course, you are entitled to a refund or placement in another course.
• Accurate Information: Before enrolling, you have the right to current and accurate information about courses, fees and study modes provided by Pembroke School and its agents.
• Under 18 Arrangements: For students under 18, your visa will only be granted if suitable accommodation, support and welfare arrangements are in place.
The ESOS Framework also requires Australian education providers to meet specific standards including:
• Orientation and support services to help you settle and succeed
• Clear contact points for international student support
• Policies on deferring, suspending or cancelling enrolment
• Academic progress requirements and available support
• Attendance monitoring policies if applicable
• Accessible complaints and appeals processes
As an international student on a student visa, you are responsible for:
• Complying with your visa conditions
• Maintaining your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your entire enrolment period plus an additional three months
• Adhering to the terms of your written agreement with Pembroke School
• Informing Pembroke School of any changes to your address or contact details
• Meeting satisfactory course progress requirements
• Following attendance policies if attendance is monitored for your course
• For students under 18, maintaining approved accommodation, support and welfare arrangements
The ESOS Framework ensures that international students receive the education they expect while maintaining safety, support and high standards throughout their time in Australia.
You can find more details via the following websites: www.studyadelaide.com
www.internationaleducation.gov.au http://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Pembroke is proud to foster a school culture rich in mutual respect, providing an environment where students, staff and families feel valued and united in their learning journey.
International students are supported by a dedicated network at Pembroke which includes:
• Coordinator of International Students, EAL and Homestay
• Pembroke Connect Program
• On-site healthcare staff
• Specialised tutoring as required
Pembroke’s Boarding House program prioritises safety, respect, fairness and open communication, ensuring students have a positive experience while living and studying in Australia. Our staff provide the highest level of care and support, helping students adjust to their new environment and thrive academically and socially.
This combination of living arrangements and support ensures that Pembroke’s international students feel welcomed and well-supported during their time in Australia.
Homestays provide for the care and accommodation of boarders during holiday periods. If a boarder will remain in Adelaide during Terms 1, 2 or 3 school holidays, the School will take an active role in assisting with arranging, approving and overseeing of the provision of suitable accommodation for the relevant period.
The Coordinator of International Students, EAL and Homestay, with the assistance of the Head of Boarding and the Dean of Administration, is responsible for overseeing all homestay arrangements.
Homestay provides students with great opportunities to experience life outside of the Boarding House and the School, to live with a family and to be an active part of that family. Boarders are encouraged to take these opportunities and enjoy the experience.
International students are warmly welcomed into our School community at Pembroke. We offer Boarding accommodation or students can reside with a parent, or nominated guardian holding a guardianship visa.
Pembroke provides a comprehensive academic program tailored to various ability levels with highly qualified staff, modern technology and excellent facilities.
Pembroke is a registered institution under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS No. 00367B).
International students must hold a valid visa for the duration of their studies in Australia. The type of visa determines whether a student will be classified as a Full Fee Paying Overseas Student (FFPOS) or whether they will pay local tuition fees. For students requiring a student visa to study, the process follows the Australian Government’s guidelines.
More information can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website: www.homeaffairs.gov.au
Students whose first language is not English must complete an English proficiency assessment before being considered for enrolment. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the student’s family. We accept various English proficiency tests including AEAS, IELTS and TOEFL.
To apply, click here to complete the online Pembroke School Enrolment Application
You will need to upload the following documents:
1. A certified copy of the student’s birth certificate
2. A photocopy of the passport page with the photo, passport number and expiry date
3. English language proficiency test results
4. Copies of school reports from the past two years
5. A reference from the student’s current school
These documents will be reviewed by the appropriate staff, and an English assessment will be conducted with our Coordinator of International Students, EAL and Homestay. Students applying for admission to the Boarding House will also have an interview with the Principal, Head of Boarding, Head of Sub-School and or delegate/s.
FFPOS students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their course plus an additional three months after completion. This can be arranged through Pembroke in partnership with Allianz Care OSHC Insurance.
International students must live in Pembroke Boarding or with a parent or guardian registered with the Department of Home Affairs. Students are not permitted to live independently while enrolled at Pembroke.
International students must meet attendance requirements (80% minimum) and maintain satisfactory academic progress to comply with student visa conditions. Students who fail to meet these standards may risk having their visa revoked.
If a parent is not present in Australia, a nominated guardian over 21 years old must be appointed to ensure the student’s welfare and act as a point of contact. The guardian must complete relevant forms as part of the enrolment process.
To access our online Application for Admission, use the following weblink:
apply.pembroke.sa.edu.au/ enrolment-application/start
Click here to see our schedule of fees.
Pembroke is committed to protecting student privacy in accordance with Australian law. Information collected during the enrolment process is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy, which is available on our website: www.pembroke.sa.edu.au
For more information including policies such as deferment, suspension or cancellation of enrolment, and to view our Refund Policy, visit our website.
Click here to view Pembroke’s International Student Policies.
342 The Parade Kensington Park SA 5068
+61 8 8366 6200
enquiries@pembroke.sa.edu.au
CRICOS Provider Number 00367B
www.pembroke.sa.edu.au