Modbury High School strives to attain a culture of achievement within a rigorous and respectful learning environment. The school has a proud history of achievement in many fields, including academic, sports, pedal prix and music. The curriculum enables students to select a variety of pathways beyond school. Subjects such as metalwork, woodwork, food and hospitality, and VET courses prepare students for a vocational pathway, while subjects such as specialist maths, maths studies, physics, chemistry, English studies, Japanese and German enable students to choose from a wide range of university courses. The school ethos of 'respect' underpins the way the school operates. Students enjoy a range of amenities: including a modern visual arts centre; a dedicated Year 12 study and recreation area; a multipurpose resource centre containing a multimedia suite; a well-equipped gymnasium; technology, music and home economics facilities; excellent grounds and ovals; and an auditorium. The school offers many extra-curricular activities for students, including organised exchanges to Japan and Germany, excursions to Canberra and the snow, sport, music and pedal prix.