Selection Advice

See also the Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding subjects and subject selections. 

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) mandates the study of the following list of subjects as compulsory:

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

• History & Geography

• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education

In addition to those mandated by NESA, all students at Cerdon College will also study Religious Education.

Within our curriculum there is also opportunity for students to choose an additional TWO (2) elective subjects. There is a broad range of subjects on offer at Cerdon College designed to cater for a wide range of student needs and talents. Elective subjects run throughout both Years 9 and 10, so elective subjects must be chosen with great care.

It is important to note the following:

• Elective subjects on offer at Cerdon are subject to numbers and the availability of staff.

• Where numbers are insufficient for a course to proceed, the course will be withdrawn from offer and students enrolled in their next preference.

• Cerdon College does not guarantee that courses offered in Years 9 and 10 will be available in Years 11 and 12.

• If you change your mind about an elective subject, you request a change to be made to your choices while you are still enrolled in Year 8.

• Once the Year 9 school year begins, elective subjects cannot be changed. They are studied for two (2) years as they are 200 hour courses.

Your best choice is an informed choice:

• Ask your current teachers about Stage 5 elective courses.

• Talk to your parents about your elective choices, especially those that require additional expenses or out of school hours activities.

• Talk to your older friends about their choices and why they like or dislike their subjects.

• Take some time to think it through for yourself before you make the final decision.

The following are a few suggestions to help you choose elective subjects wisely:

• Choose subjects you think you will enjoy.

• Recognise your natural talents and choose subjects which use these special skills.

• Consider future education goals such as HSC subjects, employment options and career goals, with the exception of the Language Continuers’ courses, no other elective subjects in Years 9 and 10 are prerequisites for the HSC.

• Do not choose subjects to be in the same class as friends.

• Do not choose a subject because someone else in the family thinks you should.

• Do not try to pick an ‘easy’ subject. All subjects are equally demanding.

• Do not think that you will be able to change a subject if you do not like it. This will not be possible.

Regular homework is essential if you are to keep up with the course, apply your skills and develop your talents. Homework can involve a range of skills and activities. Practice makes perfect so an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night is expected through Year 9.