Learning
Curriculum
St Joseph’s is committed to providing exceptional learning experiences that inspire students to explore their strengths and take ownership of their knowledge, skills, and achievements.
Our curriculum is rich in knowledge and incorporates a broad range of subject options and electives, designed to nurture curiosity, encouraging students to think critically, reflect deeply, and embrace creativity. We offer an environment where students feel empowered to take risks in their learning, develop confidence, and grow into independent, engaged thinkers.
In Years 7 and 8, we provide a comprehensive curriculum that introduces students to a wide range of subjects, giving them the opportunity to explore diverse areas of study and discover their interests for future learning.
All courses are compulsory.
- Religious Education
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technology (Mandatory)
- Geography
- History
- Music
- Visual Arts
- Personal Development Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
- Language other than English (French or Japanese in Year 8 only).
In Years 9 and 10, students have access to a diverse selection of elective subjects, enabling them build on the knowledge and skills developed in Stage 4, and to continue to pursue their interests, develop their talents, and discover their strengths.
Students in Year 9 study three electives and students in Year 10 two electives, along with their mandatory studies.
Mandatory Courses:
- Religious Education
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- PDHPE
- Australian History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship
Elective Choices:
- Child Studies
- Marine Studies
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
- Design and Technology
- Commerce
- PDM (Photography and Digital Media)
- Textiles
- Food Technology
- Music
- Drama
- Dance
- Industrial Technology – Wood
- Visual Arts
- French
- Japanese
- PASS (Physical Activity and Sports Studies)
Note: Languages on offer vary from year to year according to student interest.
Students in Years 9 and 10 can also study a language not offered at the College, through the NSW School of Languages. Additional subjects may also be available online or through distance education.
Our diverse selection of elective subjects and HSC courses inspires senior students to explore their interests, broaden their knowledge, and push the boundaries of their learning.
Through meaningful discussions with Year 10 students and their parents, we guide students in selecting courses that align with their interests and strengths while ensuring they have the best possible opportunities for tertiary education.
All students are required to study at least two units of English and at least one unit of Religious Studies.
The elective courses we currently offer students in Years 11 and 12 are:
- Ancient History
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Community and Family Studies
- Dance
- Drama
- Earth and Environmental Science
- Economics
- English (Extension 1 and 2, Advanced and Standard English, English Studies
- Exploring Early Childhood
- Food Technology
- Geography
- Industrial Technology – Timber
- Investigating Science
- Languages – French and Japanese
- Legal Studies
- Mathematics (Extension 1 and 2, 2 Unit and Mathematics Standard 1 and 2)
- Modern History
- Music 1
- PDHPE
- Physics
- Science Extension
- Society and Culture
- Studies in Catholic Thought
- Studies of Religion (1 unit or 2 unit)
- Textiles and Design
- VET – Business Services
- VET – Hospitality
- VET – Retail
- Visual Arts
COMBINED CLASSES WITH ST EDWARD’S TO BE ADDED
- Enterprise Computing
- French Beginners
- French Continuers
- Engineering Studies
- Software Engineering
- Entertainment (VET)
- Outdoor Recreation (VET)
- Screen and Media Industry (VET)
- Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation* Board Endorsed Course