The school provides a caring environment in which the pursuit of excellence is complemented by the development of self esteem through achievement.  James Ruse benefits from enthusiastic staff, supportive parents and talented students.  There is concern for each student through peer support and the provision of a wide range of challenging and enjoyable sporting and co-curricular activities, including Music, ISCF and Cadets which facilitate the development of talents and the pursuit of interests. The school's educational philosophy is well-represented in our vision for 2010, through which James Ruse Agricultural High School will promote the growth and development of:

• Educational excellence
• A dynamic curriculum within an Agricultural and selective school context
• The school as a leader in public education
• New and emerging Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
• A community of collaborative learners and decision makers
• Strong student leadership and active citizenship
• A strong and supportive student and staff welfare framework
• Quality professional teaching and learning
• Strong links between the school community and its wider community

The school's objectives outline James Ruse Agricultural High School will endeavour to:

• Develop leadership skills in all students
• Maintain and enhance collaborative decision-making in the school
• Nurture the physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being of students
• Promote participation in co-curricula and sporting programs
• Embrace the core values of integrity, excellence, respect, responsibility, cooperation, participation, care, fairness and democracy
• Promote the importance of Agriculture in the school and the wider community
• Develop competent, discriminating and creative users of Information Communication Technologies
• Maintain and enhance effective and efficient infrastructures for quality learning
• Incorporate exemplary practice in school management
• Provide a differentiated curriculum that meets the needs of gifted students
• Provide teachers with access to ongoing relevant professional learning
• Provide a safe and secure environment for teaching and learning
• continue to work in collaboration with the Community of James Ruse in all aspects of school life
• Prepare all students for life after school.