Curriculum
At Horizons College, our curriculum is more than a list of subjects — it is how we bring learning to life. Our teaching is guided by the Science of Learning, which explains how students best process and retain information. At the same time, we are committed to trauma-informed practice, ensuring classrooms are safe, supportive, and inclusive. Together, these approaches mean every student is supported to re-engage with school, build confidence, and succeed.
Years 7 and 8
In Years 7 and 8, students focus on building strong foundations in core learning areas while exploring a broad range of subjects that encourage curiosity and creativity.
This stage is designed to help students re-engage with learning, strengthen essential literacy and numeracy skills, and develop the confidence needed to progress successfully through their secondary education.
Subjects include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Digital Technologies
- Visual Arts
- Design and Technologies
- Food Technology
- THRIVE – our wellbeing and life skills program, with Health and Physical Education embedded
Year 9
Year 9 provides students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of core subjects while beginning to explore areas of personal interest through electives. This balance of structure and choice helps students develop both confidence and responsibility in their learning.
Year 9 is an important stage in preparing students for their senior years. It encourages them to build on foundational skills, pursue new interests, and begin to consider pathways for the future.
Core subjects include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History
- THRIVE – our wellbeing and life skills program, with Health and Physical Education embedded
In addition, students select two elective subjects from a diverse range of options designed to spark curiosity and develop practical skills:
- Food Technology
- Visual Arts
- Mechanical Technology
- Hair and Beauty
- Industrial Technology
- Digital Technologies
- Music
Year 10
Year 10 is an important transition year, preparing students for their senior studies and future pathways. Alongside core subjects, students begin to focus on career exploration, vocational learning, and real-world experiences.
As part of their learning, Year 10 students also complete a one-week block of work experience, giving them valuable insight into the world of work and helping to inform their senior subject and pathway choices.
Core subjects include:
- English (Australian Curriculum) or QCAA Short Course in Literacy
- Mathematics (Australian Curriculum) or QCAA Short Course in Numeracy
- Science
- Future Pathways
- THRIVE – our wellbeing and life skills program, with Health and Physical Education embedded Students also choose two elective subjects, which may be QCAA Applied Subjects or nationally recognised VET qualifications.
Students also choose two elective subjects, which may be QCAA Applied Subjects or nationally recognised VET qualifications.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses
- Certificate I in Visual Arts
- Certificate II in Active Volunteering
- Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation and Certificate II in Tyre Servicing Technology
- Certificate II in Hospitality
- Certificate II in Horticulture
- Certificate II in Salon Practices
- Certificate II in Visual Arts
Applied Subjects
- Drama in Practice
- Industrial Technology Skills
- Music in Practice
- Social and Community Studies
Years 11 and 12
In their senior years, students focus on building pathways towards employment, further training, or continued study. Programs are flexible, with a strong emphasis on practical learning and nationally recognised qualifications.
In addition, Year 11 students complete a one-week block of work experience, further supporting their transition from school into employment or further study.
Core subjects include:
- Essential English or QCAA Short Course in Literacy
- Essential Mathematics or QCAA Short Course in Numeracy
Students then select and/or continue with three elective subjects, many of which are studied over two years to enable students to complete a full qualification or Applied Subject.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses
- Certificate I in Visual Arts
- Certificate II in Active Volunteering
- Certificate II in Applied Digital Technologies
- Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation and Certificate II in Tyre Servicing Technology
- Certificate II in Hospitality
- Certificate II in Horticulture
- Certificate II in Salon Practices
- Certificate II in Visual Arts
Applied Subjects
- Drama in Practice
- Industrial Technology Skills
- Music in Practice
- Science in Practice
- Social and Community Studies
- Visual Arts in Practice