Senior Schooling Curriculum
Our Senior School philosophy is based on students having a pathway of choice. By utilising our diverse subject offerings to shape the learning journey, we are certain we can accommodate and meet the diverse needs of our students. We are proud that we have 100% of students attain a QCE and have some of the best Tertiary Entrance results in the region.
Our Senior phase of education begins in Year 10 as our students "Step Up" into Senior Secondary using this foundational year as an opportunity to plan their destination. Throughout this full year of learning, students will study core subjects English, Maths and Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways.
In Year 11 and 12, we partner with the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority to offer subjects and programs that accrue credits towards their Queensland Certificate of Education.
There are 3 types of subjects :
General - Authorised by the QCAA and are typically chosen by students who wish to obtain an ATAR and go on to further study at university.
Applied - Also authorised by the QCAA, however, are more aligned to a Vocational pathway.
VET - Vocational Education and Training programs that are delivered in Certificate format. These subjects can be included in both University and Vocational pathways, however, are typically more suited to students who wish to enter the workforce as soon as possible.
In the senior school, students select six subjects from the following group of General, Applied or Vocational Educational Subjects (VET).
All students must select an English subject if they wish to attain an ATAR.
General Subjects
Agricultural Science, Ancient History, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Design, Drama, Economics, English, English & Literature Extension (Year 12 only), Literature, Film Television & New Media, Health, Japanese, Marine Science, General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Modern History, Music, Physics, Visual Art.
Applied Subjects
Aquatic Practices, Dance in Practice, Drama in Practice, Science in Practice, Engineering Skills, Essential English, Essential Mathematics, Fashion, Furnishing Skills, Music in Practice, Sport and Recreation, Tourism, Visual Arts in Practice.
Vocational Education Certificates
Cert II Animal Care, Cert III Agriculture, Cert III Business, Certificate II in Hospitality, Certificate III in Information Technology, Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology, Certificate II in Creative Industries, Certificate II in Retail Services.
Certificate III Fitness, Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation, Certificate II Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue), Certificate II Sampling & Measurement and Certificate II Aviation (remote pilot) are delivered in partnership with other Registered Training Organisations.
Traineeships and Apprenticeships
The opportunity also exists for students to complete a School-Based traineeship or apprenticeship. These are Certificate III level qualifications and allow the student to attend the workplace one day a week in paid employment.
Senior Timetable
The timetable is based on a five-day cycle with a four period day.
Year 10 students study 6 subjects, including 3 core: English, Mathematics and Certificate II - Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways (VSW). This Certificate is embedded in our Careers Program, supporting students to successfully transition to Senior School.
Year 11 students study 6 subjects and engage in a tutorial program two lessons a week, which focusses on foundation Senior School skill development including note taking, critical thinking, exam performance strategies and understanding the Senior School systems.
Year 12 students also study 6 subjects, or 5 subjects and external program (e.g. USC Head Start, or school based traineeship). They also have the opportunity, if eligible, to participate in a flexible timetable on a Wednesday and/or Thursday. During this time, students may study independently at home or school, or complete work placements or traineeships at the agreement of the School.