Kokofa

Brief History

A Pillar of Papua New Guinean Education

1. Founding and Early History:

Gordon Secondary School traces its distinguished origins to 1972, established in the dynamic period immediately preceding Papua New Guinea's independence. Originally named Gordon High School, it was founded to address the critical need for accessible, quality post-primary education in the National Capital District and serve the growing nation.
Its establishment positioned it as an integral part of the nation's emerging educational infrastructure during a formative era.

2. Operational Legacy:

For over five decades of continuous operation (spanning more than 53 years as of 2025), Gordon has maintained its vital role. This longevity signifies its deep roots within the Port Moresby community and its sustained contribution to shaping generations of Papua New Guinean leaders, professionals, and citizens.

3. Transition to Secondary Status:

The school underwent a pivotal transformation in the late 1990s, directly resulting from the nationwide Education Reform initiatives formally established in late 1995.
This reform fundamentally restructured PNG's education system. As part of this systemic shift, institutions like Gordon High School were formally reclassified to align with the new structure. Gordon High School thus became Gordon Secondary School, reflecting its place within the reformed secondary education tier designed to provide a more standardized and comprehensive curriculum nationwide.
The change was more than nominal; it represented an alignment with new national educational goals and standards in the post-reform era.