Hey, I'm a to-be-Year-11 student at HGHS
I've known a lot of people who've transferred to and from here. One of my closest friends transferred from a non-selective school last year(Year 10) so I personally know her experience has been great but that's also hugely because she knew my friends from going to the same primary school and therefore got along instantly.
And that person's right, you can always transfer back. I also know another close friend who transferred here and then returned to her private school after a term due to her parent's wishes. I miss her sm actually T-T me and my friends are still in close contact with her.
But about 5 other people transferred into my grade last year and every single one of them have integrated fantastically into our cohort. They're really great people and I would even go to say that they may have become one of the most popular people in my grade (not because they transferred but because they're just great haha). I think that's proof that Hornsby's really accepting and you'll befriend others easily.
The people transferring out of Hornsby have gone to higher-ranking selective schools such as James Ruse and North Sydney so if you're at a lower rank you could even think about transferring even higher maybe. I will point out that Hornsby has dropped in ranking recently oop.
Going to an all-girls school I think will be very different and much less hectic than co-ed. Everyone's welcoming and there's a much of empowering women programs lol. But we do have a lot of fun ;D
I know it's a big decision to make but you should think about yourself first. If transport is easier, you'll have a much more comfortable time. If you're nice, others will be nice to you. If you don't enjoy it, you can come always go back. You're only in Year 9 so transferring there and back will definitely have less of an impact so don't worry. You're still young lol
Hope this helps
)
Also I haven't heard about any furries wha-
and yes everyone is very academically motivated and pressured and Asian and burnt out
