This evaluation was originally published 9 June 2025.

Summary

About Bradfield Senior College

• A senior secondary college jointly funded by the NSW Department of Education and TAFE NSW, located on the TAFE Northern Sydney Institute campus.
• Integrates VET and HSC courses with a focus on creative industries.
• Provides a TAFE-like learning environment with a focus on personalised and project-based learning experiences.

About Bradfield Senior College students

• Enter the college in Year 11 or Year 12, having previously attended a school from any sector.
• Have often been at risk of disengaging from school prior to their move to the college.
• Are more likely to have a disability compared with other schools.
• Choose BSC to focus on creative subjects, have an affinity with the adult learning environment or have experienced difficulties at previous schools.

How we evaluated

CESE conducted an evaluation of Bradfield Senior College (BSC) in 2021 to 24 to understand the impact of the school on student wellbeing, engagement and academic outcomes. Outcomes for BSC students were compared with those of statistically similar students, as well as all NSW Government school students.

What we found

The evaluation highlights a range of wellbeing, engagement and academic outcomes. The results are particularly notable when considered alongside the personal, social and emotional and educational challenges that many students have previously experienced, including prior risk of educational disengagement.

Wellbeing

• Students felt increased positive social connections and a greater sense of belonging.
• Students experienced less bullying compared to their prior school experience.
• Students reported more positive relationships with BSC teachers.

Engagement

• Many students who were at risk of dropping out of school have re-engaged in learning.
• Students and parents reported that students felt more engaged in learning and enjoyed school more.
• The research suggested that attendance improved for some BSC students.

Academic outcomes

• Students completed the HSC at about the same rate as other government school students.
• Students had high expectations of finishing Year 12 and most expected to go to university or TAFE.
• Nearly 90% of students graduated or transitioned to further study or work.