Curriculum Yr 9 To 10

Year 9 Curriculum

Year 9 is an exciting time for students as they begin to take greater ownership of their learning through a combination of core and elective subjects. Our curriculum provides a rich and engaging educational experience that develops both depth and breadth of knowledge while supporting students' academic, personal, and spiritual growth.

All subjects are aligned with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA), with Religious Education delivered through the Brisbane Catholic Education syllabus.

Core Subjects

Students study the following subjects for the full year:

  • Religious Education
  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Health and Physical Education

Humanities Studies

All Year 9 students also undertake Humanities learning, including:

  • History (one semester)
  • At least one additional Humanities subject (one semester):
    • Geography
    • Economics and Business
    • Civics and Citizenship

Elective Subjects

Students select three elective subjects each semester from a broad range of learning areas. Students may also choose additional Humanities subjects if they wish.

Technologies

  • Digital Technologies
  • Design Technology – Food
  • Design Technology – Food, Fibre and Production (Agriculture)
  • Design Technology – Materials (Woodwork)
  • Design Technology – Engineering

The Arts

  • Visual Art
  • Drama
  • Music
  • Media Arts
  • Dance

Health and Physical Education

  • Outdoor Education
  • Performance Sports

Humanities

  • Geography
  • Economics and Business
  • Civics and Citizenship

Languages

  • French

Through this diverse range of subjects, students are encouraged to explore their interests, challenge themselves in new areas, and develop the skills and knowledge needed for future success. The Year 9 curriculum provides opportunities for students to discover their strengths while preparing for the increased subject choices available in the senior years.

 

Year 10 Curriculum

Year 10 is an important transition year, providing students with greater choice and flexibility as they prepare for senior schooling. Our curriculum is designed to offer a rich and engaging educational experience that develops both depth and breadth of knowledge while supporting each student's academic, personal, and spiritual growth.

At this stage of learning, students can make subject choices that align with their interests, strengths, and future pathways. All subjects are delivered in accordance with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA), with Religious Education following the Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) syllabus.

Core Subjects

Students study the following core subjects throughout the year:

  • Religious Education
  • English or English Extension
  • Mathematics:
    • Essential Maths Prep
    • General Maths Prep
    • Maths Methods Prep – Extension
  • Science or Science Extension
  • Health and Physical Education

Extension Pathways

To support students aspiring to university pathways and advanced senior studies, St Patrick's College offers extension courses in English, Mathematics, and Science.

These classes:

  • Explore the Australian Curriculum in greater depth
  • Move at a faster pace
  • Include more challenging assessment tasks
  • Prepare students for senior subjects such as:
    • Mathematical Methods
    • General Mathematics
    • Literature
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics

Students considering an extension subject are generally recommended to be achieving an A or B standard in the corresponding Year 9 subject.

Students enrolled in core English, Mathematics, and Science classes will continue to study the full Australian Curriculum, with learning experiences and assessment designed to meet achievement standards while catering to a range of learning needs and pathways.

Elective Subjects

Students select three elective subjects each semester from a broad range of learning areas. These subjects allow students to explore their interests, develop practical skills, and begin preparing for senior secondary study.

Humanities and Languages

  • Geography
  • Economics and Business
  • Civics and Citizenship
  • French

Technologies

  • Digital Technologies
  • Design Technology – Food
  • Design Technology – Food, Fibre and Production (Agriculture)
  • Design Technology – Materials (Woodwork)
  • Design Technology – Engineering

The Arts

  • Visual Art
  • Drama
  • Music

Health and Physical Education

  • PE Elective
  • Fitness Elective

Pathway Studies

  • Early Childhood Studies

Through a combination of core and elective learning, Year 10 students are encouraged to challenge themselves, pursue their interests, and make informed decisions about their future studies. This balance of academic rigour, practical learning, and personal choice helps ensure students are well prepared for the opportunities and expectations of Years 11 and 12.

More information is available here in the Yr 9 & 10 Handbook (PDF 640KB)