Student enrichment, extra-curricular and extension programs and opportunities

Performing arts enrichment: Theatre Residence Program

Marrickville High School was accepted into the first ever Combined Schools Musical, Shrek the Musical, run by The Arts Unit. Our committed ensemble of 19 actors, singers and dancers rehearsed for more than two hours each week throughout Term 1 in preparation for the event which took place on March 25 at Mona Vale Public School. We are so proud of all our performers – we thank them for their time and commitment. Thank you also to the CAPA team that led the students through the experience.

Creative and performing arts opportunities: Drama and musical showcases

Our drama, music and art programs help students be creative and express themselves. They can join in concerts, art shows and drama activities.

Annual CAPA events and programs include: Stage 4 Music Soiree, Year 10 Junior Drama Production, Marrickville’s Got Talent Show, CAPA Showcase, CAPA HSC Showcase of Drama, Music and Visual Arts major works, Music Ensemble program.

See the CAPA faculty for information on how to join. Here are our Year 10 students performing in the Year 10 play Scenes from the Climate Era!

Excursions and incursions

Our students enjoy getting out of the classroom to explore, learn and try new things. These experiences help them grow, build confidence and see how their learning connects to the world. Here is our Senior Geography class at Chowder Bay exploring the sea environment!

Lunchtime, afterschool and interest-based clubs: Garden Club

Every Wednesday afternoon students interested in growing vegetables, planting, and creating a perfect green ecosystem with native bees and all in the community garden. To join Garden Club see Ms Garcia in the Library!

School sport, athletics and inter-school competition: sport for everyone

Our PDHPE faculty offers students a variety of sport options for both grade sport as well as competitive knock out competitions in Football, AFL, Rugby League, Netball, Cricket and Volleyball to name a few. See the PDHPE faculty for more information. Here is our Senior Girls Netball team who perform exceptionally well at knock-out competitions and gala days.

Public speaking and debating

Students can develop their thinking, communication and teamwork skills through debating and public speaking. They also have the chance to compete in local and state events. Our debate team are serious competitors and have had some fantastic wins against local schools! All students are welcome to join the junior or senior team.,

Creative and performing arts opportunities: musical performances

There are plenty of opportunities to learn a musical instrument, join a band or ensemble, and perform music in front of an audience. Marrickville students take part in events such as the Marrickville Music Festival, the CAPA Showcase, the Year 8 Battle of the Bands, and senior soirees. Here, students are performing at Ashfield Town Hall as part of the MHS Band Night.

lunchtime and interest-based clubs such as Robotics Club: Lego First Competition

Our Robotics Club proudly competes in the LEGO FIRST Competition, where students design, build, and program robots to take on exciting real-world challenges. Through hands-on collaboration in our brand-new STEM room, students develop skills in coding, engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork. It's a fun and inspiring way to learn through innovation and creativity!

In 2025 the Robotics Club participated in the FIRST LEGO League regional competition, achieving an impressive 4th place in the Robot Games —just narrowly missing qualification for the national finals. Considering the team only began in 2024 this a remarkable achievement and a testament to the students’ dedication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, and staff leadership, guidance and mentoring.

Activities that support high potential and gifted learners: Mathematics Stretch Club.

The Mathematics Stretch Club at Marrickville High School challenges high-achieving students through engaging workshops, competitions, and problem-solving activities that deepen mathematical understanding and foster critical thinking. Highlights include team-based challenges and special events like a live International Pi Day webinar with renowned teacher Eddie Woo, all designed to inspire a lasting passion for mathematics.

Activities that support high potential and gifted learners: Write a Book in a Day Competition

Write a Book in a Day is an exciting extra-curricular opportunity for students passionate about writing and illustrating, where creativity and teamwork take centre stage. On Monday 18 August, students from Marrickville High School and Marrickville Public School wrote full books in just six hours, each book had to include two human characters, one non-human character, a setting, an issue, and five surprise words.

Student leadership opportunities: Parliament House Student Leaders Program

Our school offers a range of student leadership opportunities, including the Student Representative Council (SRC). This term, our school captains Maggie and Tom, participated in the Secondary Schools Student Leadership program at the Parliament of NSW. They met Members of Parliament, explored the legislative chambers, and visited Government House, gaining valuable insights into government and civic leadership. These experiences empower our students to become active, informed leaders in our school community.