Stage 6
Subject Selection Information

Why study English Studies?

English Studies is designed for students who wish to refine their skills and knowledge in English and consolidate their English literacy skills to enhance their personal, social, educational and vocational lives. This course is designed to meet the specific needs of students who are seeking an alternative to the English (Standard) course and who intend to proceed from school directly into employment or vocational training. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Focus Areas - Preliminary

• Reading to Write 

• 2-3 Elective Areas

Focus Areas - HSC

• Narratives and Human Experience

• Writing for Purpose

• 2-3 Elective Areas

Course Assessment

Year 11 Preliminary English Studies students complete three assessment tasks:

• Collection of Classwork

• Multimodal presentation

• Creative Writing piece

Year 12 English Studies students complete four assessment tasks that may be in the form of:

• A critical response

• A creative response

• A formal written examination

Students will be able to sit for an optional HSC examination and will be reported on a common scale with the English Standard and English Advanced courses

Students choosing not to sit for the English Studies HSC examination will still be eligible for the HSC if they have satisfactorily completed courses that comprise the pattern of study required by NESA

To be eligible for an ATAR, students studying the English Studies course must complete the optional HSC examination and include a further 8 units of Category A courses in their pattern of study.

The HSC examination is 2 hours long: 

Section I: Narrative and Human Experiences

Section II: Narrative and Human Experiences

Section III: Writing for Purpose

Why study English Standard?

The English Standard course will help students develop a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. In English Standard, students study texts with clear ideas, are introduced to the basics of literary analysis, and develop a higher level of competence in grammar and communication. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Focus Areas - Preliminary

• Common Focus Area: Reading to Write 

• Focus Area A: Contemporary Possibilities 

• Focus Area B: Close Study of a Text 

Focus Areas - HSC

• Common Focus Area: Texts and Human Experiences 

• Focus Area A: Language, Culture & Identity 

• Focus Area B: Close Study of Text 

• Focus Area C: Craft of Writing

Course Assessment

• Essay Writing

• Presentation

• Imaginative/Discursive/Persuasive Writing

• Examinations

HSC Examination consists of TWO papers:

• Paper 1 - 1.5 hours  (covering the Common Focus Area)

• Paper 2 - 2 hours (covering Focus Area A, B and C

Why study English Advanced?

In the English Advanced course, students will investigate complex ideas in challenging texts, and employ powerful, creative and sophisticated ways to use language to make meaning, and to find enjoyment in literature. Students will develop their ability to question, reconsider and refine meaning through language, and to reflect on their own responses and learning processes.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Focus Areas - Preliminary

• Common Focus Area: Reading to Write 

• Focus Area A: Narratives that Shape our World

• Focus Area B: Critical Study of a Text 

Focus Areas - HSC

• Common Focus Area: Texts and Human Experiences 

• Focus Area A: Textual Conversations

• Focus Area B: Critical Study of Text 

• Focus Area C: Craft of Writing

Course Assessment

• Essay Writing

• Presentation

• Imaginative/Discursive/Persuasive Writing

• Examinations

HSC Examination consists of TWO papers:

• Paper 1 - 1.5 hours  (covering the Common Focus Area)

• Paper 2 - 2 hours (covering Focus Area A, B and C

Why study English Extension 1?

Studying English Extension 1 allows students to deeply explore complex literary ideas, texts, and values. It develops advanced analytical, research, and writing skills while encouraging independent thinking. The course challenges students to engage with literature intellectually and creatively, preparing them for tertiary study and fostering a sophisticated literary perspective.

Year 11 Extension English 1

Prerequisites for choosing this course:

(a) Choosing the English Advanced course.

(b) English Extension in Year 11 is a prerequisite for English Extension 1 in Year 12

(c) English Extension 1 in Year 12 is a prerequisite for English Extension 2

The course has one mandatory Focus Area: Texts, Culture and Value as well as a related research project.

Students are required to:

• examine a key text from the past and its manifestations in one or more recent cultures

• explore, analyse and critically evaluate different examples of such texts in a range of contexts and media

• undertake a related research project.

Course Assessment

3 assessment tasks, in the forms of:

• a task assessing the Related research project

• a formal written examination

Year 12 Extension English 1

The course has one common Focus Area, Literary Worlds, with five associated electives. Students must complete one elective chosen from one of the five electives offered for study.

The electives are:

• Confessional Worlds

• Shakespearean Worlds

• Historical Worlds

• Natural Worlds

• Hybrid Worlds

In the English Extension 1 course students are required to study:

• Students are required to study THREE prescribed texts in ONE elective. At least TWO of these texts are required to be extended print texts, which may include poetry.

• Students are also required to study ONE related text for the elective.

Course Assessment

3 assessment tasks, in the forms of:

• a creative response

• a task integrating student-selected related material

• a formal written examination

HSC Examination consists of ONE paper that is 2 hours in length:

Question 1 - Literary Worlds

Question 2 - Electives

Why study English Extension 2?

English Extension 2 offers Year 12 students the unique opportunity to create an original Major Work, guided by research and literary models. It fosters independence, creativity, and critical reflection. Students develop high-level writing, editing, and project management skills, making it ideal for those passionate about literature, composition, and academic or creative pursuits.

Major Work

In the English Extension 2 course students are required to:

• Complete a Major Work which involves students undertaking extensive independent investigation involving a range of complex texts during the composition process and document this in their Major Work Journal and Reflection Statement.

• Students can choose to compose in ONE of the following forms:

  • short fiction

  • creative nonfiction

  • Poetry

  • critical response

  • script – short film, television, drama

  • podcasts – drama, storytelling, speeches, performance poetry

  • Multimedia.

Course Content: Author and Authority

• Through an author study, students explore the primacy of the author and significant literary theories.

• Students explore how and why literary creation and interpretation have evolved over time.

• They examine the relationship between texts and literary criticism through key thinkers and texts.

• They assess literary originality and how innovation reshapes meaning.

• Genre, technology, and form are explored to question traditional authorial authority.

• Students analyse short texts and extracts to evaluate changing notions of authorship.

• The course develops theoretical understanding of the author's role in shaping and reflecting context.

• Students apply these insights in critical and creative compositions.

HSC Examination consists of ONE paper that is 1.5 hours in length:

Question 1 - Author and Authority

Question 2 - Author Study

Why study Advanced Mathematics?

This course is ideal for students who have shown a strong interest in Mathematics and have performed well in the Stage 5 Advanced course or higher. Mathematics Advanced provides the opportunity to explore mathematical concepts at a higher level, with a focus on both theoretical understanding and real-world applications. The course highlights the beauty, logic, and interconnected nature of mathematics, with differential and integral calculus forming a central focus. Students are encouraged to think critically, reason logically, and solve problems through observation, analysis, and reflection.

Topics include functions, trigonometry, calculus, exponential and logarithmic functions, probability, and statistics. The course builds a solid foundation for tertiary studies in STEM, commerce, and related fields, and prepares students for careers in areas such as engineering, data science, finance, economics, and actuarial studies. It develops students’ ability to model and interpret the world mathematically and equips them with essential skills for further study and life beyond school.

In Year 11, the Preliminary course introduces fundamental concepts including functions, trigonometric functions, introductory calculus, exponential and logarithmic functions, and statistical analysis. Students complete three assessment tasks, including a formal examination. 

In Year 12, the HSC course builds on this foundation with more advanced topics such as graph transformations and modelling, applications of calculus, including Differential and Integral Calculus, sequences and series, random variables, and financial mathematics. Students complete four assessment tasks, including the HSC Trial Examination.

Throughout both years, students engage in collaborative learning, utilise technology to investigate and solve problems, and develop their mathematical reasoning and communication skills. The course not only prepares students for academic and career success, but also invites them to appreciate the order and structure of creation, reflecting God’s design.

Why study Standard Mathematics?

The Mathematics Standard courses are designed to equip students with the skills to use mathematics effectively, efficiently, and critically to make informed decisions in everyday life. These courses provide students with the opportunity to develop a solid understanding of mathematical concepts through real-world applications.

Year 11 Mathematics Standard course is suitable for students who have progressed through the Core outcomes of the Stage 5 Mathematics Syllabus. It is particularly appropriate for those who have enjoyed and excelled in the Year 10 Standard course—or who have experience in more advanced mathematics—and are looking to extend their mathematical skills beyond Stage 5. Students will deepen their understanding of key mathematical ideas and learn how to apply them in practical and meaningful contexts.

Throughout the Year 11 course, students will engage with topics such as Algebra, Financial Mathematics, Measurement, Networks, and Statistics. The Preliminary course includes three assessment tasks, one of which is a formal Preliminary Examination.

Mathematics Standard 2 in Year 12 builds on the concepts introduced in Year 11. It provides a pathway for students to further develop their mathematical thinking through the exploration of more complex content, with a strong emphasis on applications and modelling. This course supports a wide range of future educational and employment aspirations.

The HSC course includes four assessment tasks, including the HSC Trial Examination, and revisits key areas from the Preliminary course in greater depth.

Why study Mathematics Extension?

Mathematics Extension 1 is designed for students with a strong aptitude for mathematics and a genuine passion for the subject. It is intended for those who have demonstrated high achievement in the Year 10 Extension course and must be studied concurrently with Mathematics Advanced. This course equips students with a deep understanding of advanced mathematical concepts and strong problem-solving skills, forming a foundation for tertiary study and careers in fields such as engineering, computer science, physics, finance, economics, and mathematics.

Throughout the course, students engage with progressively challenging mathematical ideas and applications. They explore the elegance, structure, and interconnected nature of mathematics, with differential and integral calculus serving as core components. The course fosters logical reasoning, rigorous argumentation, and the use of mathematical models to analyse real-world situations, supporting further study in mathematics and related disciplines.

In the Year 11 (Preliminary) course, students study advanced topics including functions, trigonometric functions, and combinatorics. Through practical applications, they develop deeper insight into mathematical principles and refine their analytical thinking. The Preliminary course includes three assessment tasks, one of which is the Preliminary examination.

In Year 12, the HSC Mathematics Extension 1 course builds on this foundation with topics such as proof by mathematical induction, vectors, inverse trigonometric functions, further calculus skills and applications, and statistical analysis. Students are challenged to apply their knowledge in increasingly complex contexts, with three assessment tasks required, including the Trial HSC Examination.

Please note that the Year 11 Mathematics Extension 1 course includes the full Year 11 Mathematics Advanced course content. Similarly, the Year 12 Mathematics Extension 1 course includes all Year 12 Mathematics Advanced course content. All students enrolled in Mathematics Extension 1 will sit both the HSC examinations for these subjects.

Why Study Mathematics Extension 2?

The Mathematics Extension 2 course is designed for students who demonstrate exceptional ability and a genuine passion for mathematics. It is intended for those who have excelled in both the Year 11 Mathematics Advanced and Year 11 Mathematics Extension 1 courses.

This challenging and advanced course offers students the opportunity to explore sophisticated mathematical concepts, building upon the strong foundation developed in earlier studies. Through Mathematics Extension 2, students will further strengthen their problem-solving skills, engage in abstract reasoning, and deepen their understanding of complex mathematical ideas.

Mathematics Extension 2 provides an excellent foundation for university studies in mathematics, engineering, physics, actuarial studies, computer science, finance, economics, and related fields. It also develops the ability to solve unstructured problems and to communicate mathematical ideas clearly and effectively.

The course is structured around five key areas of study: Proof, Vectors, Complex Numbers, Calculus, and Mechanics.

Mathematics Extension 2 is studied in Year 12 only, and must be undertaken concurrently with both Year 12 Mathematics Advanced and Year 12 Mathematics Extension 1 in Year 12.

Assessment in this course consists of four tasks that vary in style and content. These tasks are designed to assess students’ ability to apply mathematical reasoning, solve complex problems, and communicate their solutions with clarity.

Mathematics Extension 2 offers a unique opportunity for students to deepen their mathematical knowledge, refine their analytical skills, and prepare for future academic and professional pathways. The depth and rigour of this course cultivate critical thinking skills that are highly valued in many careers and reflect the order, creativity, and logic found in God's creation.

Why study Studies of Religion II?

Throughout Studies of Religion II we learn that religion has been and is an integral part of human experience and a component of every culture. An appreciation of society is enhanced by an understanding of religion, its influence on human behaviour and interaction within culture. Studies of Religion provides a learning experience that prepares students for further education and training, employment and full and active participation as citizens within society.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Studies of Religion II course is an in-depth exploration of religion, designed to develop students' knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking skills. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the major world religions, their beliefs, practices, and the influence they exert on individuals, societies, and global issues.

Across Stage 6, the course covers a number of key areas, including:

• Religion and Belief Systems in Australia: Explores the historical, social and cultural contexts of Indigenous spirituality, Christianity, and other religious traditions present in the country, and their impact on society.

• Religious Tradition (depth study): Students choose one specific religious tradition to study in-depth. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity are typically covered in this section.

• Religion and Peace: Explores the role of religion in promoting peace, harmony, and resolving conflicts, and challenges of religious extremism.

• Religion & Non-Religion: Explores and critically analyses the rise of secularism, atheism, and non-religious belief systems.

Course Assessment

• Essays

• Reports

• Examinations

Why study Modern History?

The study of Modern History Stage 6 requires students to analyse the causes, progress and effects of the great social, technological, economic, political and moral transformations from the late eighteenth century to the present. Students will gain critical 21st century skills, including the ability to deconstruct texts and narratives, pose intelligent questions, test hypotheses and make critical use of information technologies. Further, this course helps empower students to become responsible and active citizens who will recognise the factors affecting change and continuity in human affairs.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Examples of topics studied in the Preliminary course are below.

• Case Study: The American Civil War

• Case Study: The Origins of the Arab-Israeli Conflict

• The Nature of Modern History: Pearl Harbour & The Holocaust case studies

• Historical Investigation: Topic of choice

• Shaping the Modern World: World War One

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• Core: Power & Authority in the Modern World 1919-1946

• National Study: Russia & The Soviet Union 1917-1941

• Peace & Conflict: Conflict in Indochina 1954-1979

• Change in the Modern World: Civil Rights in the USA 1945-1968

Course Assessment

• Short answer and essay responses

• Historical Investigation

• Oral Presentation

• Source-based skills

• Examinations

Why study Ancient History?

Students study Ancient History because it provides them with opportunities to satisfy their fascination and interest in the stories of the past and the mysteries of human behaviour. It allows them to develop and apply the research skills and methodologies of the historian and archaeologist, as well as critical thinking skills. It also gives them opportunities to develop their own perspectives on the origins and influence of ideas, values and behaviours that are still relevant in the modern world.

Main Topics Covered

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary Ancient History course are below.

• Core Study: Investigating the Past (Preservation and Conservation of Ancient Sites)

• Case Study: Emergence of Early Societies

• Case Study: Homer and the Trojan War

• Historical Investigation

• Features of Ancient Societies: Weapons and Warfare in Greece; Power and Image in Egypt

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC Ancient History course are below.

• Core Study: Cities of Vesuvius

• Ancient Societies: Spartan Society to the Battle of Leuctra 371BC

• Personalities in their time: Julius Caesar

• Historical Period: The Fall of the Roman Republic 78-31BC

Course Assessment

• Historical investigation

• Written responses

• Oral presentations

• Source analysis

• Examinations

Why study Business Studies?

Business Studies provides students with opportunities to learn about the business environment and the way that businesses operate within society. It allows students to question and evaluate the strategies of contemporary businesses, analyse the influences on key functions and explain the processes behind the successful operation of a business.

Main Topics Covered

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary course are below.

• The Nature of Business

• Business Planning

• Business Management

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• Financial Management

• Marketing Management

• Operational Management

• Human Resource Management

Why study Legal Studies?

Legal Studies provides students with opportunities to learn about the legal system, the way that society operates and the influences that shape it. It allows students to question and evaluate legal institutional structures and processes in both the domestic and international environment, through the investigation of contemporary case studies and media. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary course are below.

• The Legal System:

  • Basic legal concepts & functions

  • Law reform

• The Individual & the Law:

  • Rights & responsibilities

  • Resolving disputes

  • Technology

• Law in Practice (case studies):

  • Bali Nine

  • Organised Crime

  • Port Arthur Massacre

  • Jock Palfreeman

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• Crime:

  • Investigating crime

  • Trials

  • Sentencing & Punishment

• Human Rights:

  • United Nations

  • Treaties & International law

• Option 3: Family

• Option 7: World Order

Why study Economics?

Economics helps you understand how the world works—why prices rise, how governments make decisions, and what drives jobs and incomes. It sharpens your thinking, boosts real-life decision-making, and opens up career paths in business, law, finance, and more. If you’re curious about money, people, or global issues, economics is a smart, practical choice.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary course are below.

• Introduction to Economics:

  • What is Economics About

  • How Economies Operate / Differ

• Consumers & Business:

• Markets:

  • Demand & Supply

• Labour Markets

• Financial Markets

  • Stock / Share Market

  • Interest Rates & Loans

• Government & the Market Economy

  • Government in Action (the budget and policy making choices)

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• The Global Economy:

  • International Trade

  • Globalisation - Case Studies 

• Australia’s Place in the Global Economy:

  • Australia’s trade

  • The exchange rate

• Economic Issues:

  • Economic Growth

  • Unemployment

  • Inflation

  • External Stability

  • Distribution of Income & Wealth

  • Environmental Sustainability

• Economic Policies & Management: 

  • Macro & Micro economic policies

  • Effectiveness of policies in meeting economic objectives

Why study Geography?

Geography provides students with opportunities to develop and apply their understanding of the geographical concepts of place, space, environment, interconnection, scale, sustainability and change. 

Students investigate some of the earth’s natural systems, investigating the diverse landscapes of the Earth’s surface and its distinctive physical features. The people, patterns and processes and human–environment interactions.

They investigate evidence for, and causes of, climate change, as well as the role of humans in contributing to land cover change. 

Students will investigate global sustainability, including a specific economic activity. They will also study rural and urban places in Australia and overseas. They will also study two types of ecosystems and their biodiversity as well as the impact of people on these ecosystems and how they are managed. 

Students will develop critical thinking skills in investigating many aspects of the world we live in

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Preliminary Course

• Earth’s Natural Systems 

• People, Patterns and Processes

• Human-environment interactions

• Geographical inquiry skills and tools and 

• Fieldwork 

HSC Course

• Global Sustainability (including Climate Change) 

• Rural and Urban Places (including a detailed study of a rural and urban place in Australia and a major city outside of Australia)

• Ecosystems and global diversity (including the study of two ecosystems and their management

• Geographical inquiry skills and tools and 

• Fieldwork

Why study Chemistry?

The study of Chemistry in Stage 6 enables students to develop an appreciation and understanding of materials and their properties, structures, interactions and related applications. Chemistry involves using differing scales, specialised representations, explanations, predictions and creativity, especially in the development and pursuit of new materials. It requires students to use their imagination to visualise the dynamic, miniscule world of atoms in order to gain a better understanding of how chemicals interact.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Stage 6 Chemistry Syllabus explores the structure, composition and reactions of and between all elements, compounds and mixtures that exist in the Universe. The discovery and synthesis of new compounds, the monitoring of elements and compounds in the environment, and an understanding of industrial processes and their applications to life processes are central to human progress and our ability to develop future industries and sustainability.

Practical investigations and secondary-sourced investigations are an essential part of the Chemistry course. The Chemistry Stage 6 course is designed for those students who have a substantial achievement level in Science and Mathematics Stage 5 courses.

Main Topics Covered

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary course are below.

• Properties and Structure of Matter

• Introduction to Quantitative Chemistry

• Reactive Chemistry

• Drivers of Reactions

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• Equilibrium and Acid Reactions

• Acid/Base Reactions

• Organic Chemistry

• Applying Chemical Ideas

Why study Biology?

Biology provides students with a coherent understanding of the functioning, origins and evolution of living things. The study of biology recognises that humans have a greater influence on the world than any other species and we have a responsibility to conserve, protect, maintain and improve the quality of all environments for future generations. It is a fundamental discipline that focuses on personal and public health and sustainability issues, and promotes an appreciation for the diversity of life on the Earth and its habitats. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

This course develops scientific investigative skills, critical thinking skills, and complements the study of other science disciplines and STEM-related courses. 

Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 course and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time, including time allocated to practical investigations in depth studies. One fieldwork exercise must be completed in Year 11.

The Year 12 course primarily focuses on the human body, genetics, biotechnology and the many aspects which impact human health and wellbeing.

Main Topics Covered

Preliminary Course Modules:

• Cells as the Basis of Life

• Organisation of Living Things

• Biological Diversity

• Ecosvstem Dynamics

HSC Course Modules:

• Heredity

• Genetic Change

• Infectious Disease

• Non-Infectious Disease and Disorders

Course Assessment

May include but are not limited to:

• Investigation report

• Depth study

• Formal examination

• Presentation

• Field study

Why study Physics?

Preliminary and HSC Physics involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts that include energy and force. Physics deals with the study of phenomena on scales of space and time – from nuclear particles and their interactions up to the size and age of the Universe. This allows students to better understand the physical world and how it works, appreciate the uniqueness of the Universe, and participate in navigating and influencing the future.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Year 11 course develops students’ knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to the study of motion, how we describe it and what causes it. The course also examines energy in its different forms, and how we describe and measure electricity and magnetism and their interrelated effects.

The Year 12 course provides avenues for students to apply the concepts introduced in Year 11 and to motion in two dimensions, electromagnetism, the nature of light, and the atomic properties of matter.

Main Topics Covered

The Year 11 course consists of four modules.

• Module 1 Kinematics

• Module 2 Dynamics 

• Module 3 Waves and Thermodynamics

• Module 4 Electricity and Magnetism

The Year 12 course consists of four modules.

• Module 5 Advanced Mechanics

• Module 6 Electromagnetism

• Module 7 The Nature of Light

• Module 8 From the Universe to the Atom

Course Assessment

• Depth study

• Practical investigations

• Examinations

Health and Movement Science - Stage 6 Course Overview

In Health and Movement Science, students investigate the science behind physical activity, movement, sport and health. They explore how the body functions and adapts to movement as well as examine personal and community health practices through a scientific and sociocultural lens. Students develop skills in inquiry, analysis and research as well as learn how to apply knowledge to improve performance, promote wellbeing and support a holistic view of health. Students participate in a collaborative investigation where they work in small groups  to choose an area of health or movement to research and unpack. The course encourages students to think critically about health information, challenge assumptions, and become informed advocates for health in their communities.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Focus Areas – Preliminary

• Health for Individuals and communities 

• Body and Mind in Motion

• Collaborative Investigation
  
  

Focus Areas – HSC

• Training for improved Performance

• Health in an Australian and Global Context

• Health Research and Inquiry
  
  

Course Assessment

• Extended Response Writing

• Research Investigations

• Practical Analysis Tasks

• Examinations

• Collaborative Investigation

Why study Community and Family Studies?

Community and Family Studies explores the nature of families and communities, and the social, cultural and environmental factors that influence wellbeing. Students investigate the role of individuals and groups in shaping society and promoting equity. By developing skills in research, communication and decision-making, students become informed citizens who can contribute meaningfully to family, community and societal wellbeing.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Focus Areas – Preliminary

• Resource Management

• Individuals and Groups

• Families and Communities

Focus Areas – HSC

• Research Methodology

• Groups in Context

• Parenting and Caring

• Social Impact of Technology
  
  

Course Assessment

• Research Report (IRP)

• Case Studies

• Group Tasks

• Extended Responses

• Examinations

Why study Drama?

Stage 6 Drama is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding and practical experience of drama and theatrical practices. It encourages students to develop their creative, critical, and performance skills while exploring a range of dramatic texts, styles, and techniques. 

Some possible career paths include; acting, directing, various production and design roles, playwriting, filmmaking, teaching, theatre criticism. Aside from these future career paths, in Drama students will develop skills that will significantly benefit them in their future careers that involve public speaking, leadership, communication and collaboration.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

Throughout the Preliminary course, students will engage in various practical activities to enhance their understanding of a number of theatrical practices and styles. Students will learn to analyse and interpret dramatic texts, develop their performance skills (including acting, vocal projection, physicality, and stage presence) and gain a greater understanding of the technical aspects of theatre production, such as stagecraft, lighting, sound, set design, and costume. 

The HSC Course is broken into 4 main units: 

Australian Drama and Theatre - explores the ways theatre can provide insight into our society.

Studies in Drama and Theatre - in-depth exploration of a particular style, genre, or practitioner’s approach to acting and performance.

The Group Performance - requires students to work with their peers to devise a wholly original piece of theatre developed over the course of a term.

The Individual Project - provides students scope and variety to demonstrate their skills in performance, production or analysis. This is worked on over the course of their HSC Year, and submitted as a part of their ‘major work’ for the subject. 

Course Assessment

• Performances: Solo and Group 

• Essay Responses 

• Independent Research Projects 

• Logbook Work 

• Examinations

Why study Visual Arts?

Studying Visual Arts is a captivating journey of self-discovery, boundless creativity and profound expression. It develops technical skills, critical thinking, and unlocks new perspectives. Whether aspiring to be an artist or embracing your creativity, Visual Arts offers an opportunity to unleash your imagination and explore the world around us. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Preliminary course provides foundational knowledge as students explore a range of art forms, techniques and concepts, developing their artistic abilities and understanding of art history. The emphasis is on building fundamental skills, experimenting with different mediums, and exploring personal artistic expression.

The HSC course allows students to refine their artistic practice and explore advanced concepts and techniques. Students are encouraged to critically analyze and respond to the work of established artists, art movements and contemporary issues. They engage in extensive research, experimentation and refinement of artistic techniques. The HSC course culminates in the creation of a major artwork, accompanied by a written component that articulates the conceptual framework, influences and artistic intentions behind the artwork.

Main Topics Covered

The Stage 6 Visual Arts course covers a wide range of topics, including artmaking, analysing artworks, developing conceptual frameworks, refining artistic skills, exploring art theory, and understanding the art industry. These topics provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the artistic process and concepts, preparing them for a multifaceted exploration of the art world.

Course Assessment

• Practical Body of Work and

• Visual Arts Process Diary

• Short answer and essay forms

• Art Case Studies

• Presentations

• Examinations

Why study Music I?

Studying HSC Music 1 leads to improved musical skills, knowledge of music theory and analysis, composition creativity, understanding of music history, performance opportunities, and many potential music career paths.

The study of Music I can lead to careers in music performance, composition and arrangement, education, production and sound engineering, music journalism, and music therapy. Many individuals also carve out unique and interdisciplinary careers by combining their musical skills with other fields such as media, technology, entrepreneurship, and more. 

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Preliminary course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in music theory, history, composition, and performance. It nurtures their musical abilities, expands their knowledge, and provides a well-rounded musical experience. 

The HSC course enables students to deepen their musical knowledge, enhance their performance skills, develop their creativity, and gain a deeper appreciation for music. This subject provides a solid basis for pursuing further musical studies and opens doors to various career opportunities in the music industry.

Main Topics Covered

Preliminary and HSC Music 1 covers areas of study and experience such as:

1. Music Theory and Analysis: notation, scales, chords, analysis.

2. Musicology: history, composers, analysis, appreciation.

3. Aural Skills: listening, identifying elements.

4. Performance: solo and ensemble performance.

5. Composition and Arrangement: creating original works.

6. Music Technology: using software and digital tools.

7. Music Analysis and Research: analyzing scores, researching.

Course Assessment

The assessment structure for HSC (Year 12) Music 1 typically consists of a combination of practical and written assessments.

Why study Industrial Technology Multimedia?

The Industrial Technology Multimedia course offers an exciting and enriching experience, providing students with valuable skills, knowledge, and hands-on practice in the dynamic world of multimedia. Students will gain hands-on experience in image and video editing, animation, and sound editing to effectively produce multimedia projects. They will acquire skills in project planning and resource management, and develop proficiency in using industry-standard multimedia tools and software for content creation.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

In the Preliminary course, students will enjoy project work in logo design, 3D animation and producing a short film. They will delve into an industry study, which will equip them with a broad range of skills and knowledge essential to the multimedia industry. Throughout the course, students will engage in practical activities, building evidence of their skills, knowledge, and design management processes in project folios.

In the HSC course, students will have the opportunity to plan, produce, and manage a Major Project of their choice, which will make up a significant portion of their HSC Exam mark. Utilising industry-standard processes and tools, students can create a captivating multimedia production, whether it's an animation, live-action film, website, computer game, or any other medium of their choice. Additionally, they will explore the technologies and tools prevalent in the industry and conduct an investigation into how industry-wide organisations respond to social and ethical factors.

Main Topics Covered

Both the Preliminary and HSC courses offer an exciting and comprehensive learning experience in the field of multimedia. These courses are divided into four sections that cover various aspects of the industry:

1. Industry Study: Explore the multimedia industry and gain valuable insights into its workings. Discover how organisations within the industry navigate social and environmental issues while developing a deeper understanding of its dynamics.

2. Design, Management, and Communication: Develop essential skills in design, project management, and effective communication. Learn how to bring creative ideas to life and effectively convey your message through multimedia projects.

3. Multimedia Production: Immerse yourself in hands-on multimedia projects, including logo design, 3D animation, and the creation of short movies. Gain practical experience while honing your skills in multimedia production techniques.

4. Multimedia Authoring Technology: Discover the technologies and tools used in the multimedia industry. Explore industry-standard processes and gain proficiency in using these tools to bring your creative visions to fruition.

Course Assessment

• Multimedia Production and folio 

• Short answer and essay forms 

• Industry Study Report 

• Oral Presentations 

• New Technologies Case Study 

• Examinations

Why study Food Technology?

Food Technology provides students with knowledge, understanding and skills that form a valuable foundation for a range of courses at university and other tertiary institutions. The course involves hands-on, practical activities, and assists students to prepare for employment and gain recognition in vocational education and training, e.g. TAFE & Hospitality Schools.

Preliminary and HSC Course Overview

The Preliminary course will develop knowledge and understanding about diet and nutrition, the functional properties of food, safe preparation, presentation and storage of food, sensory characteristics of food, the influences on food availability and factors affecting food selection. Students will gain practical skills in planning, preparing and presenting food.

The HSC course involves the study of: sectors, aspects, policies and legislations of the Australian Food Industry; marketing of food product development; nutrition incorporating diet and health in Australia and influences on nutritional status. Practical experiences in developing, preparing, experimenting and presenting food are integrated throughout the course. The HSC course also involves a Major Design Project, addressing the design processes of Idea Generation, Research, Prototyping, Production and Evaluation.

Main Topics Covered

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the Preliminary course are below.

• Food Availability and Selection

• Food Quality

• Nutrition

Examples of topics studied in previous years of the HSC course are below.

• The Australian Food Industry

• Food Manufacturing

• Food Product Development

• Contemporary Nutrition Issues

Course Assessment

• Practical Food Product Development

• Research Report on Australian Food Industry

• Practical preparation and presentation of food products each week.

• Examinations

Overview of VET - Entertainment Industry Course

VET Entertainment Industry equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the live entertainment industry. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experiences, students will look at various aspects of the entertainment sector, including event management, audio and lighting production, stagecraft, and multimedia. This subject provides an ideal platform for students who have a passion for performing arts, event management, technical production, or multimedia design to embark on an exciting journey towards a rewarding and fulfilling career in the entertainment industry.

As part of this course students will also receive a statement of attainment towards a Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services (CUA30420). By engaging in 70 hours of industry-relevant workplace experience, students will gain valuable insights into the planning, execution, and evaluation of live performances, exhibitions, and events. They will develop a deep understanding of the key roles and responsibilities involved in the entertainment industry, fostering teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Main Topics Covered

Main topics covered in Year 11 are:

• Work Health and Safety

• Live Audio Operations

• Customer service

• Operate basic lighting

Main topics covered in Year 12 are:

• Staging

• Operate Vision Systems

• Workplace experience