What they learn - ages 16+

Learning for 16+ | What they learn | Helping your child learn | About stages of learning 

The later years of schooling are centred on the Stage 6 syllabuses. Your child's learning in Stage 6 is based on a studying a number of subjects and units in the Preliminary and Higher School Certificate (HSC) years.

Typically the HSC is completed over two years, however some students may take up to 5 years under the HSC Pathways provisions.

How your HSC works is a detailed outline for students starting the HSC.

Subject selection

The NSW Board of Studies allows many subjects to be studied for the HSC. Each subject has a detailed syllabus document.

NSW Public Schools Years 11 & 12 subjects describes a range of subjects that may be available at your child's school. Speak to the staff at the school for more details about what subjects are available.

Vocational Education and Training

Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses allow students to gain nationally recognised qualifications while developing work related skills in a variety of industry areas and have the course contribute to their HSC. The TAFE-HSC Credit Transfer Website can assist students with course selection for their HSC study in order to maximise credit transfer into TAFE NSW courses.

VET courses are designed for all students in years 11 and 12, and are taught by teachers either at school or at TAFE.

Syllabus and course details are available from Board of Studies Vocational Education. They provide a detailed booklet for students in year 10 who are planning on Studying for the NSW Higher School Certificate which will also be of interest to parents.

Assessment in Years 11 and 12

HSC assessment policies and documents provedes a range of information on assessment for students, teachers, school principals and parents.

Rules and Procedures for 2010 Higher School Certificate Candidates document provides a full explanation of what is required for the award of a Higher School Certificate (in NSW).

NSW HSC Online: for parents provides useful information on assessment, examinations and reporting results of the HSC. Speak to your child's school for more detailed information about assessment.

Preparation for examinations

Getting ready for the exams outlines the administrative responsibilities of the Higher School Certificate year and the people who can offer assistance.

The NSW Board of Studies publishes past examination papers and marking guidelines for each subject. Online Multiple Choice has been developed to allow students to test themselves with multiple choice HSC questions in a range of subject areas. (Note: Adobe Flash Player 10 required). They also provide detailed advice on assessment and reporting through the Assessment Resource Centre.