Technological and Applied Studies courses allow and develop students to demonstrate innovative thinking, creative problem solving along with skill acquisition, through the management of projects to meet criteria within a set timeframe; these skills are highly advantageous and appealing to the 21st World of work. The majority of the courses contain a hands-on practical element and are often driven by student choice, allowing students to pursue areas of interest and passion.
Students are not obliged to study a TAS subject, they may elect to to study an option below.
Agriculture Technology
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $50.00
Year 10: $50.00
Course Overview
Agriculture Technology gives students hands-on experience in modern farming, animal care, and plant production. Students explore sustainable practices, food production systems, and livestock management while applying scientific principles and practical skills in real-world contexts.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Units of Study:
Aquaculture- Investigate fish farming techniques, water quality management, and sustainable aquaculture practices.
Sheep/Pasture- Learn sheep management including breeding, nutrition, and welfare, along with pasture evaluation, and effective grazing strategies. Innovations in Agriculture are examined and analysed (Henty Field Day).
Cattle/Markets- Study beef cattle production, animal husbandry including breeding, nutrition, and welfare. Analyse market influences including historical and current and decision-making processes to future proof enterprises.
Spring Broadacre- Investigate and analyse large-scale cropping systems with a focus on sustainability, seasonal planting, soil and crop management. Plus small plot development.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
THEORY Assessment:
Aquaculture report
Sheep report
Term-3 Exam
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment:
Plant Prac
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Farmer / Livestock Manager
Agronomist / Crop Consultant
Aquaculture Technician
Farm Manager
Horticulturist / Greenhouse Manager
Agricultural Sales or Supply Specialist
Environmental or Land Management Officer
Food Production / Quality Assurance Technician
Skills and attributes developed:
Problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision-making in practical agricultural contexts
Practical skills in animal care, plant production, and farm operations
Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple tasks in practical and theoretical contexts
Collaboration, communication, and teamwork in practical fieldwork tasks
Awareness of sustainability, ethical practices, and environmental stewardship
Past Student challenges
Understanding and applying technical agricultural terminology, processes, and industry practices.
Working effectively under time constraints and meeting deadlines.
Balancing hands-on practical work with theoretical learning, ensuring both are completed to a high standard.
Using problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills to make informed decisions in farm management and fieldwork.
Students who do well in/enjoy this subject:
Are passionate about hands-on learning, working with plants, and animals
Demonstrate patience, organisation, and the ability to manage multiple projects and tasks effectively.
Enjoy solving practical problems, experimenting with innovative farming techniques, and applying critical thinking.
Work confidently both independently and collaboratively, contributing meaningfully to team-based projects.
Have a strong interest and commitment to understanding food production, sustainable agriculture, and modern farming practices.
Food Technology
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $150.00
Year 10: $150.00
Course Overview
Explores the science, culture, and creativity behind food. Students develop practical skills in food preparation, cooking, and presentation while learning about nutrition, food equity, product development, and catering.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 9:
Food In Australia - Explore the history, origins, and cultural influences of Australian cuisine, and learn to select and use local, seasonal ingredients effectively.
Food Selection and Health - Develop an understanding of nutrition, dietary requirements, and healthy eating guidelines while applying this knowledge in practical cooking tasks.
Food for Special Occasion - Plan, prepare, and present meals for celebrations or events, focusing on menu design, presentation.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 10:
Food Product Development - Investigate, design, and produce innovative food products, using research, testing, and evaluation to refine recipes and techniques.
Food Equity - Examine social, ethical, and environmental issues affecting food production, distribution, and consumption, and apply these concepts to practical projects.
Food Service and Catering - Learn professional catering skills, including meal planning, preparation, timing, and presentation, while working individually and in groups.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 9:
Culinary Skills Prac
Multicultural Banquet
Term-3 Exam
Cake Decoration
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 10:
Product Development
Fairs Fare
Term 3 Exam
Luncheon Catering
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Chef / Cook
Patisserie / Baker
Nutritionist / Dietician
Food Technologist / Product Developer
Catering or Hospitality Manager
Café or Restaurant Manager
Food Safety Inspector
Event or Function Manager
Skills and attributes developed:
Understanding of nutrition, food science, and hygiene
Practical cooking and food preparation skills
Planning, organisation, and time management
Problem-solving, creativity, and recipe development
Communication, teamwork, and collaboration
Initiative, independence, and responsibility for safety and hygiene
Resilience, adaptability, and attention to detail
Past Student challenges
Working efficiently in a busy kitchen environment
Meeting performance standards for both practical cooking and written assessments
Using research, problem-solving, and evaluation skills to develop and improve recipes or food projects
Managing time and working effectively under pressure when preparing multiple dishes or completing practical projects
Students who do well in/enjoy this subject:
Enjoy cooking, experimenting with flavours, and creating dishes
Work well independently and take initiative in practical tasks
Enjoy
problem-solving and testing new techniques
Have an interest in food science, nutrition, and professional catering
Are resilient and able to adapt when recipes or projects don’t go as planned
Graphics Technology
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $20.00
Year 10: $20.00
Course Overview
Introduces students to the design, creation, and communication of technical and creative solutions. Students develop skills in manual and digital drawing, CAD modelling, and 2D/3D visual communication to solve real-world design problems.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study:
Graphics Technology Core 1 - Introduction to technical drawing, design process, using manual skills of illustration of graphic shapes and form, rendering and freehand pictorial plus geometric construction and basic isometric and orthographic drawing.
Graphics Technology Core 2 - Expands on Core 1 concepts with more complex technical drawing of isometric and orthographic drawing. Computer Added Design (CAD) projects, design problem-solving, and integrated design folio work.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
Theory Assessment:
Term-3 Exam
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment:
Illustration Project
Product drawing project
CAD - Creo
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
CAD Technician, Draftsperson, Graphic Designer, Digital Illustrator
Architectural Technician
Industrial / Product Designer
Game/Animation Designer
Mechanical / Industrial Design Engineer
Urban / Landscape Planner
Skills and attributes developed:
Manual drawing, technical sketching, and visual communication
CAD software proficiency and 3D modeling
Design process application: concept development → refinement → final product
Spatial awareness and attention to detail
Collaboration, reflection, and self-directed learning
Past Student challenges
Managing time to complete both theory and practical projects
Learning new software (CAD/Creo) efficiently
Translating creative ideas into accurate technical drawings
Balancing creativity with precision and technical requirements
Understanding and using complex technical vocabulary
Students who do well in/enjoy this subject:
Are organised, self-motivated, and reflective in their work
Enjoy designing and problem-solving visually and practically
Are comfortable using computers and digital tools
Like applying creativity in structured, technical contexts
Can work independently, with occasional collaboration
Are patient and detail-oriented
1 hours outside class for theory tasks, drawing, or CAD practice
Computing Technology
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $20.00
Year 10: $20.00
Course Overview
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Units of Study:
Game Design Principles - Explore Game Mechanics; learn the concepts behind engaging gameplay, user experience, and interactive design.
Video Game Design Project - Turn your ideas into a playable game prototype using computational and design thinking. Learn advanced programming concepts, including loops, conditionals, and algorithm design.
Introductory PC Hardware Concepts - Gain understanding of computer components, operating systems, and how technology works behind the scenes.
PC Hardware Deep Dive - Learn to configure hardware, optimise performance, and troubleshoot software to meet the needs of specific users by upgrading a PC with the selection of the perfect parts to suit performance and budget factors.
Installing & Optimising Drivers/Software - Learn to configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems with confidence. Handle electronic equipment, assemble a PC: Connecting Components, Cable Management, Hints/Tips/Hacks.
Multimedia - Explore a range of foundational animation and multimedia design principles by investigating: Storyboarding, Frame Rates, and Visual Storytelling through Stop Motion Animation.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
Theory Assessment:
Term-3 Exam
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment:
Unplugged Game Design
Video Game Portfolio
Multimedia
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Software Developer / Programmer
Game Designer / Developer
IT Support Technician / Network Administrator
Multimedia Designer / Digital Content Creator
Web Developer / Front-End Developer
App Developer / Mobile Software Designer
Cybersecurity Technician / IT Security Analyst
UX/UI Designer
Skills and attributes developed:
Problem-solving and computational thinking using logic, algorithms, and structured reasoning.
Creativity and innovation in games, multimedia, and interactive projects.
Collaboration and communication for effective teamwork and presentations.
Project management and organisation to plan, execute, and meet deadlines.
Technical literacy in hardware, software, troubleshooting, and system optimisation.
Industrial Technology - Metal
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $100.00
Year 10: $100.00
Course Overview
Focuses on constructing functional metal projects. Students learn practical skills in welding, machining, and fabrication while working safely with tools and equipment. Students explore the metal industry, sustainability, innovations, and career pathways while developing an understanding of the properties, performance, and evaluation of metals.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 9:
Introduction to Welding and Fabrication - Learn basic ARC welding techniques and essential workshop safety and hand tools use. Students read task plans to fabricate a tool to specification.
MIG Welding and Fabrication - Learn MIG welding techniques, and sheet metal fabrication using various tools and equipment.
Brazier Design - Combine design and fabrication to produce a functional metal project, including cutting lists and design communication.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 10:
Metal Machining - Lathe & Mill - Learn precision metal shaping using lathes and milling machines
MIG Welding & Fabrication - Apply advanced MIG welding techniques to more complex fabrication project
Fabrication - Plan and complete a self-directed project using multiple metalworking skills
Typical school-based Course Assessment
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 9:
BBQ Flip/Arc Welding Ticket
MIG Welding Ticket
Caddie/Rocket Stove
Term-3 Exam
BrazieR
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 10:
Center Punch
Welding Ticket
Term 3 Exam
Tool Box
‘F’ Clamp Project
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50 min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Welder / Fabricator, Metal Machinist / Toolmaker
Sheet Metal Worker
Engineering / Workshop Technician
Boilermaker
Metal Fabrication Technician
Maintenance / Plant Fitter
Metal Product Designer / Prototype Developer
Stage / Set Builder
Skills and attributes developed:
Safe use of hand tools, power tools, and workshop equipment
Precision measuring and finishing techniques
Welding, metal shaping, machining, and fabrication
Creative problem-solving and troubleshooting
Planning, organisation, and time management
Communication, teamwork, and collaboration
Initiative, independence, and resilience
Industrial Technology - Timber
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $80.00
Year 10: $80.00
Course Overview
Allows students to develop practical skills in designing and constructing functional and creative timber projects. Students learn to measure, cut, shape, join, and finish timber while applying the design process and safe workshop practices. The course encourages problem-solving, planning, and independent learning through hands-on projects.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 9:
Basic Timber Joints - Learn key timber joints while practicing safe workshop procedures
Trees and Timber - Study timber properties, sustainability, and material selection. Identify renewable and non-renewable resources in the timber industry.
Wood Turning - Explore lathe work and shaping timber into functional or decorative objects
Timber and Design - Apply design principles to create small-scale projects
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac units of study Yr 10:
Joints and Design - Develop more complex joints and integrate design thinking into projects
Around the Bend - Explore curved and laminated timber techniques along with technical drawing.
Wood Turning - Advance turning skills, set up and use of lathe between 2 centres
Timber and Design - Plan and produce projects with an emphasis on problem-solving and finish. Use of various hand and power tools, e.g. trim router, sanders and band saw.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 9:
Sound Amplifier
Camp Stool
Term-3 Exam
Design Project
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment Yr 10:
Box Joint Container & Folio
Bentwood Laminated Project and Folio
Term 3 Exam
Design Project & Folio
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Carpenter / Joiner
Cabinetmaker / Furniture Maker
Timber Machinist
Workshop or Production Technician
Boat/Marine Timber Technician
Stage or Set Builder
Wood Product Designer / Prototype Developer
Sustainability / Materials Consultant
Skills and attributes developed:
Practical skills in measuring, cutting, joining, finishing, and tool use
Application of the design process: research, planning, prototyping, and evaluation
Problem-solving, innovation, and creativity in practical projects
Project planning, time management, and organisation
Following workshop protocols, handling tools responsibly, and creating a safe working environment
Past Student challenges
Understanding and applying technical timber terminology
Managing time to complete practical projects and maintain portfolios
Achieving precise measurements, clean joins, and professional finishes
Planning and managing multiple projects simultaneously
Maintaining focus and safety in the workshop environment
Students who do well in/enjoy this subject:
Enjoy hands-on making and creating functional or artistic timber products
Are patient, precise, and detail-oriented
Work independently, take initiative, and manage their own learning
Enjoy problem-solving and experimenting with techniques
1 hours outside class for portfolio documentation or practice
Textiles Technology
NESA Developed: Yes
Number of lessons per fortnight: 5
Course Costs* (approximate, subject to conditions and approval):
Including potential excursions, consumables and other relevant costs*
Year 9: $50.00
Year 10: $50.00
Course Overview
Allows students to explore creativity and practical skills through designing, constructing, and evaluating textile products. Students develop technical skills in sewing, pattern-reading, fabric selection, and embellishment while learning the design process and problem-solving for both apparel and non-apparel projects.
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Units of Study:
Sampler - Learn basic hand and machine sewing techniques, fabric handling, and skill execution. Build knowledge of textile materials, tools, safety, basic design process, exploring properties and performance of fibres and fabrics. Issues of sustainability within the textiles industry are also explored.
Skirting Around - Construct simple apparel (e.g., skirts), learning garment construction using a commercial pattern, measurements, fit and tailoring. Explore the cyclic nature of fashion through the years and how fashion is a reflection of society at the time.
Non Apparel - Explore design principles, innovation and experimentation. Create textile items like toys, soft furnishings, or textiles art, driven by student interest while documented in a design folio.
Typical school-based Course Assessment
Theory Assessment:
Term - 3 Exam
INTEGRATED Theory/Prac Assessment:
Sampler Portfolio
Skirt Projects and Portfolio
Self-directed Project and Portfolio
Term-3 Exam Sample Format
Duration: 50min
Typical format: multi choice, multi-part, short answer
Possible vocational/career pathways
Fashion Designer, Garment Designer, Textile Designer, Surface Pattern Designer
Costume Designer (film, theatre, TV)
Apparel Production Technician
Fashion Illustrator / Technical Designer
Homewares or Interior Textile Designer
Stage or Event Stylist
Skills and attributes developed:
Practical skills in sewing, pattern-reading, and embellishment
Design process: research, creativity, problem-solving prototype development, and evaluation
Independence, resilience, and initiative
Project planning, time management, and organisation,
Communication, reflection, and collaboration skills
Past Student challenges
Managing time for practical projects and portfolio work
Understanding and applying technical textile terminology
Self-motivation for independent research and skill practice
Balancing creativity with functionality and design requirements
Achieving precise measurements, sewing accuracy, and neat finishes
Students who do well in/enjoy this subject:
Have patience and attention to detail for precise, high-quality work
Work independently, take initiative, and manage their own learning
Enjoy solving design challenges and experimenting with materials and techniques
Are organised, able to plan ahead, and manage projects successfully
Thrive when expressing creativity through hands-on making