At Notre Dame College, we provide a broad based and innovative curriculum which aims to develop the intellectual, physical, spiritual, and social aspects of every student. While engendering a love of learning, we also encourage each student to strive to reach their full potential.

It is important to note that the subject areas listed reflect the College's current curriculum; we regularly review our curriculum so changes may occur from year to year. Elective subject offerings are subject to student choice, student numbers and staff expertise and may alter from semester to semester and year to year.

Curriculum Year 7-8

In Years 7 and 8, students undertake a variety of subjects giving them exposure to a broad variety of sequential learning experiences.

Curriculum Year 9

Year 9 is a time of challenge, friendship and fun and the unique Emmaus Programme recognises that students learn best when they are given varied and engaging experiences. It is also a critical time of increasing independence for young adolescents as they strive to develop an identity for themselves.

At Notre Dame College, we aim to build their engagement with learning and enable students to broaden their outlook, make responsible choices and develop life skills. The program also aims to extend students academically through a challenging and rigorous curriculum that promotes both independent and collaborative learning.

Students will have the opportunity to select elective subjects that interest them and lead them into senior pathways at Notre Dame College. The Year 9 in 2023 Handbook provides a guide to the Year 9 Programme at Notre Dame College, including descriptions of the exciting and challenging elective subjects offered to our students.

Curriculum Year 10

Year 10 is an exciting year as students prepare for their future career paths. Year 10 also signals a significant move into Senior School. Classes in Year 10 are timetabled alongside those in Year 11 and 12, allowing access to a broad range of VCE and VET subjects offered at the College.

Pathway Options

The Year 10 Programme offers students THREE pathway options

• The Standard Programme
• The Accelerated Programme
• The Employment Pathways Programme

(This is a specialised program designed to allow students to investigate and experience a variety of work industries and to determine whether VCE or VCE/VM (VCAL) is the right senior pathway option for their interests.)

In 2023 Victoria moved to new single senior secondary certificate that bring together the best of VCE and VCAL. The Vocational Major (VM) is replacing the VCAL programme at Intermediate and Senior levels. Introducing the Vocational Major into the VCE (VCE/VM) will mean all senior secondary pathways are equally celebrated and recognised.

For more detailed information of the Year 10 Programme, download the Senior Pathways Handbook.

Curriculum Year 11-12 VCE

VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education) is the senior secondary certificate in Victoria recognising successful completion of secondary education. Duration minimum two years.

Assessments include

• School-based assessments (SACs and SATs)
• External assessments by VCAA (exams)
• General Achievement Test (GAT)

Upon Successful Completion students receive a Victorian Certificate of Education, a study score for each subject and an ATAR.

Pathways include

• University
• TAFE or further education and training
• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• The workforce

Subject Selection

Senior pathways are an exciting time for students to create a personalised programme tailored to their interests, areas of strength and ambitions.

At Notre Dame College we are committed to support our students make a successful transition to life beyond school, be that further study, training, and employment. The senior pathways handbook provides a comprehensive guide to the broad range of subjects available at Notre Dame College - including a great range of Vocational options.

The subject selection process requires careful consideration by students with the support of parents and careers advisors at the college. Families are encouraged to attend the subject selection evenings and access information provided in the various course guides on the college website.

Curriculum Year 11-12 VCE/VM

VCE|VM (Victorian Certificate of Education / Vocational Major) is a vocational and applied learning programme within the VCE. It will replace Senior and Intermediate VCAL from 2023. Duration Minimum two years.

This programme aims to develop personal and practical life skills and prepare you for the next important stage of your life.

The programme structure is made up of specific studies

• Literacy
• Numeracy
• Work Related Skills
• Personal Development Skills

It also includes, 180 hours of VET, their choice of traditional VCE studies, and time in the workplace which will give them credits towards their certificate.

Assessments include

• a range of school-based learning activities and tasks
• General Achievement Test (GAT)

Upon Successful Completion students receive a Victorian Certificate of Education with the additional words ‘Vocational Major’.

Pathways include

• TAFE or further education and training
• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• The workforce

Subject Selection

Senior pathways are an exciting time for students to create a personalised programme tailored to their interests, areas of strength and ambitions.

At Notre Dame College we are committed to support our students make a successful transition to life beyond school, be that further study, training, and employment. The senior pathways handbook provides a comprehensive guide to the broad range of subjects available at Notre Dame College - including a great range of Vocational options.

The subject selection process requires careful consideration by students with the support of parents and careers advisors at the college. Families are encouraged to attend the subject selection evenings and access information provided in the various course guides on the college website.

Links

Forms, Letters and Links