How many subjects do I need to choose?
You must study a minimum of 12 units in Yr 11. You must do 2 units of English and at least 1 unit of Religious Education (Either Studies of Religion or Studies in Catholic Thought). SPMC Students who are wishing to get an ATAR will generally study 13 units in Year 11 (including 1 unit of RE).
Which subjects Scale better than other subjects?
Do not choose a subject because you have heard that it scales well and will boost your ATAR. Scaling is a process used by UAC to be able to compare courses. It is the equivalent of applying a currency conversion to compare $1AUD with $1USD. It is a very complex process to be able to compare a mark in one subject to another.
What is the difference between ATAR and NON-ATAR
The difference between the two patterns of study is about post-secondary intentions. An ATAR - Australian Tertiary Admission Rank - is needed to apply for university courses directly out of Yr 12. Your classification as an ATAR or NON-ATAR student is all about your pattern of study. You must choose 10 ATAR units to be eligible for an ATAR. There is no difference in the day to day lessons, application or assessment requirements if you are an ATAR student or a NON-ATAR student. It is not something you can "sign-up" for - it is based on the subjects you choose.
What is a Category A subject and a Category B subject?
There is no longer any classification of subjects as Category A and Category B. This means that students who study multiple VET courses are now eligible for an ATAR if they wish. Students who do not wish to receive an ATAR will still be able to opt out of certain HSC examinations.
What is VET?
VET - Vocational Education and Training - courses are dual accreditation courses. Students may use these ATAR Eligible courses for the calculation of the ATAR, so long as they have a formal examination. In addition, students will receive an industry accepted qualification in the chosen course as well. Examples of VET subjects include Hospitality and Construction. There are also additional eVET courses run through NSW TAFE.
What are pre-requisites, co-requisites and recommended subjects?
A pre-requisite is a subject or level you must have reached in Yr 10 in order to enter the subject in Yr 11. A co-requisite is a subject that MUST be studied in conjunction with the chosen subject, for example, English Advanced is a co-requisite for English Extension 1.
When is my Subject selection due?
Week 1, Term 3 Friday 25th July. We will be holding a Subject Selection Market on Monday June 30th for further information about choosing subjects and information for Students and Parents.
Will all subjects run?
Subjects will run depending on the number of students who choose a particular subject
Who is teaching the different subjects?
It doesn't matter!! Choose a subject because you have an interest in the subject and a passion for learning, not because who is teaching it or not teaching it or who may or may not be in your class!
When will I find out what subjects I've been enrolled in?
Early Term 4 you will receive a letter with your confirmed subjects. The process of selections, lines, timetabling is a complex process that takes time.
What happens if I choose a subject that doesn't run?
If you choose a subject that doesn't run, then you will receive one of your backup options that you select.
Can I change my subjects once I have been enrolled?
Yes, you may - once you receive your subjects, you will need to speak with the Head of Learning who will go through options for lines and subjects available for you to choose. These discussions need to take place no later than Week 3 of Term 1.
I have another question, but it's not listed here and I can't find the information anywhere.
Email Mr Steve Carr scarr2@parra.catholic.edu.au