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.

Subject Selection and Programme Guides

Subject Selections 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 supporting our students to make a successful transition to life beyond school, be that further study, training or employment.

The Subject and Programme Guides provide a comprehensive guide to the broad range of subjects available at Notre Dame College - including a great range of vocational options for senior students.

The subject selection process requires careful consideration by students with the support of parents/guardians 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.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 7 - 9 Subject and Programme Information

2026
Year 7
2026
Year 8
2026
Year 9

Senior Pathways Year 10 -12 Subject Information

2026
Senior Pathways
2026
Year 10
2026
Year 11
2026
Year 12
2026
Year 11-12 VCE VM

Year 7 2026

Knight Street - Journey of Discovery

In Year 7, students undertake a broad range of subjects to provide a solid foundation for their pathway through secondary schooling.

In their first year students study the following subjects: Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Health and Physical Education, Language (students select Italian or Japanese), The Arts (one term each of Visual Art, Music, Drama, Media), and Technology (one term each of Metal and Wood, Digital Technology, Textiles, Food).

Year 7 students embark on an overnight camp where they undertake a series of fun outdoor activities. The camp aims to build confidence and kick-start new friendships.

Updated 2026 guide will be available soon.

Year 7 2025 Information and Subject Guide
Year 7 2025 Information and Subject Guide

Year 8 2026

Students in Year 8 will continue to experience a range of subjects from each of the Learning Areas, building on the Year 7 programme. Students will undertake eight year-length core subjects and have the opportunity to select four semester-length electives, two from The Arts and two from the Technology Learning Areas.

The Sports Academy is offered as a select entry programme at Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10. All subject offerings are detailed in the Year 8 Subject and Programme Guide.

Important Dates

Please find below important dates for you and your child - READ MORE.

Wednesday 6 August, Lesson 2

Student information and planning session - this will be facilitated by subject teachers.

Friday 8 August

Subject Selection Portal opens - the access link will be emailed directly to your student's email address. After discussing subject selection with your child, they can submit their preferences. You will then receive a link to sign off on the subjects they have selected on the portal.

Friday 15 August, 4:00pm

Web Preferences Portal closes.

Friday 31 October, 3:00pm

Subject confirmation will be emailed to students.

Parent engagement is valued, and we look forward to working with families to support students in achieving the best outcomes through selection of programmes tailored to their individual strengths, areas of interest, and ambitions.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 7 into 8 2026 Planning Sheet
Year 8 2026 Subject and Programme Guide
Year 8 2026 Subject and Programme Guide

Year 9 2026

Emmaus- Explore and Evolve

Year 9 is a pivotal year for students as they move out to our Emmaus Campus. Here, they encounter a broader array of choices and greater flexibility in their learning. With expanded elective options, students are empowered to pursue areas of interest and contemplate future educational pathways. Some of their options include VET Agriculture, Hairdressing, Fitness Boot Camp and Game Design.

A highlight of their time in Year 9 is Cafe Emmaus, where students have hands-on experience preparing tasty treats and meals for their peers and teachers to purchase.

Full details of subjects offered at Year 9 are available in the Course Handbook.

Year 9 Daborra Experience

The name ‘Daborra’ has been chosen to reflect the connection to land and country that the Year 9 outdoor learning experience provides. Daborra is held during Term 1 in various Victorian locations, which may include Anglesea, Cathedral Ranges, Gembrook, Murray River and Lake Eildon. It is a highlight of College life, with the memories treasured well beyond graduation day.

Daborra along with the varied electives available, helps students to work towards developing resilience, a sense of identity, self-worth, excitement and direction.

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Important Dates

Please find below important dates for you and your child - READ MORE.

Tuesday 29 July, 5:00 – 6:30pm

An information session for 2026 Subject Selections for parents and students will be held at Sacred Heart Hall, Knight Street.

Thursday 31 July, Lesson 1 and 2

An information session will be held for students, followed by a planning session facilitated by subject teachers.

Thursday 31 July – Friday 8 August

This period is designated for students to thoroughly research and make informed decisions about their subject choices. During this time, students should:

- Read through the course handbook

- Speak with subject teachers, Pastoral Group Leaders and Head of House about potential subjects

- Discuss options with parents/carers

- Complete their Subject Selection Planning Sheet and discuss this with their parents/carers, Pastoral Group Leader and Head of House.

Monday 11 August – Extended Pastoral Group

During this extended session, students will complete their subject selections in Pastoral Group with support from their Pastoral Group Leader and Head of House. Students must bring their completed planning sheet that has been signed by their Head of House.

The access link to the Subject Selection Portal will be emailed directly to your student's email address. Once they have completed their preferences, you will receive a link to sign off on the subjects they have selected on the portal.

Friday 15 August, 4:00pm

Web Preferences Portal closes.

Friday 31 October, 3:00pm

Subject confirmation will be emailed to students.

Parent engagement is valued, and we look forward to working with families to support students in achieving the best outcomes through selection of programmes tailored to their individual strengths, areas of interest, and ambitions.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 8 into 9 2026 Planning Sheet
Year 9 2026 Subject and Programme Guide
Year 9 2026 Subject and Programme Guide

Senior Pathways

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

At Notre Dame 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 Subject and Programme Guide provides a comprehensive guide to the broad range of subjects available at Notre Dame College including a great range of Vocational options.

A message from Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching, Kris Walker.
Senior Pathways Subject and Programme Guide 2026
Senior Pathways Subject and Programme Guide 2026
VET Handbook 2025 (2026 version still to come)
VET Handbook 2025 (2026 version still to come)

Year 10 2026

In Year 10, students study a combination of core and elective subjects each semester, tailoring their studies to their interests and aspirations. Eligible students have the opportunity to accelerate a subject, enabling them to begin their VCE studies.

Other students may choose to engage in the Employment Pathways programme tailored to Year 10 students who are committed to building their skills in a vocational trade. A feature of Employment Pathways is the requirement to participate in Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) which supports students to work across a range of industries with the aim to establish positive relationships with potential employers.

Please find below important dates for you and your child -READ MORE.

Friday 25 July

Parents and students will be emailed subject recommendations for English, Maths and Science.

Monday 28 July, 5:00-6:30pm

An information session for parents and students for 2026 Subject Selections will be held at Sacred Heart Hall, Knight St.

Tuesday 29 July, Lessons 1 and 2

Year 9 students and staff will start their day at Knight Street (Sacred Heart Hall) for a Year 9 into Year 10 Subject Selection Information Session. The session will feature an outline of the Year 10 Learning Programme including Employment Pathways.

Following the presentations, students will have an opportunity to interact with subject-specific information stands and ask questions.

Wednesday 30 July, Pastoral Group and Lesson 1

Further time is dedicated to supporting students as they complete their 2026 Planning Sheets. Students will be able to collect application forms during this session.

Thursday 31 July – Friday 8 August

This period is designated for students to thoroughly research and make informed decisions about their pathway and subject choices. During this time, students should:

- Read through the course handbook

- Speak with subject teachers, Pastoral Group Leaders and Head of Community about potential subjects

- Research career pathways related to subjects of interest

- Submit application forms

- Discuss options with parents/guardians

- Schedule careers meetings for personalised guidance

- Complete their Subject Selection Planning Sheet and discuss this with their parents/carers, Pastoral Group Leader and Head of Community.

Friday 8 August

Last day to submit application forms. Please return to Emmaus Student Reception.

Monday 11 August – Extended Pastoral Group

During this extended session, students will complete their subject selections in Pastoral Group with support from their Pastoral Group Leader and Head of Community. Students must bring their completed planning sheet that has been signed by their Head of Community.

The access link to the Subject Selection Portal will be emailed directly to your student's email address. Once they have competed their preferences, you will then receive a link to sign-off on the subjects they have selected on the portal.

Friday 15 August, 4:00pm

Web Preferences Portal closes.

Friday 31 October, 3:00pm

Subject confirmation will be emailed to students.

Parent engagement is valued, and we look forward to working with families to support students in achieving the best outcomes through selection of programmes tailored to their individual strengths, areas of interest, and ambitions.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 9 into 10 in 2026 Planning Sheet

Year 11 2026

Senior students have the flexibility to choose how they approach their studies in the final years of secondary schooling. The two main pathways available to students in Year 11 and 12 are:

- The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) - the certificate that the majority of students in Victoria receive on satisfactory completion of their secondary education

- The VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) - a vocational and applied learning programme within the VCE with specific subjects designed to prepare students for a vocational pathway.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a study option offering senior students the opportunity to gain a nationally-recognised qualification as part of their VCE or VCE VM programme.

VET courses are designed by industry experts to ensure students are well-prepared for the workplace with relevant skills and training. Covering an extensive range of industries, VET is a great way to get a kick-start in a career before leaving school.

Students also have the opportunity to apply to participate in a number of courses through external providers. Check out the VET Information.

The Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) The Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) is an inclusive, flexible option designed for students who, for various reasons, aren't able or ready to complete the VCE or VCE VM.

The VPC provides an accessible pathway to further education, training, and employment opportunities. The VPC is normally completed in Year 11 and 12 but offers flexibility in timing - it can be started earlier or finished over a period longer than two years. Students work with the school to determine the best timeframe for starting and completing the VPC programme.

Please find below important dates for you and your child - READ MORE.

Wednesday 30 July, 5:00-6:30pm

An information session for parents and students for 2026 Subject Selections in Sacred Heart Hall, Knight St.

Thursday 31 July, Lesson 3

Student information and planning session.

Thursday 31 July – Friday 8 August

This period is designated for students to thoroughly research and make informed decisions about their pathway and subject choices. During this time, students should:

- Read through the course handbook

- Speak with subject teachers, Pastoral Group Leaders and Head of Community about potential subjects

- Research career pathways related to subjects of interest

- Submit application forms

- Discuss options with parents/guardians

- Schedule careers meetings for personalised guidance

- Complete their Subject Selection Planning Sheet and discuss this with their parents/carers, Pastoral Group Leader and Head of House.

Wednesday 6 August

External VET applications close. Students who wish to apply for an external VET subject must complete an Application to Enrol in External VET. This is to be returned to the Learning and Teaching office for approval.

Once approved, students will receive an email advising that the subject has been enabled for selection on the portal. You will not be able to complete selections until this has been approved.

Monday 11 August – Extended Pastoral Group

During this extended session, students will complete their subject selections in Pastoral Group with support from their Pastoral Group Leader and Head of House. Students must bring their completed planning sheet that has been signed by their Head of House.

The access link to the Subject Selection Portal will be emailed directly to your student's email address. Once they have completed their preferences, you will then receive a link to sign off on the subjects they have selected on the portal.

Friday 15 August, 4:00pm

Web Preferences Portal closes.

Friday 31 October, 3:00pm

Subject confirmation will be emailed to students.

Parent engagement is valued, and we look forward to working with families to support students in achieving the best outcomes through selection of programmes tailored to their individual strengths, areas of interest, and ambitions.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 10 into 11 in 2026 Planning Sheet

Year 12 2026

The two main pathways available to students in Year 11 and 12 are:

- The Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) - the certificate that the majority of students in Victoria receive on satisfactory completion of their secondary education

- The VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) - a vocational and applied learning programme within the VCE with specific subjects designed to prepare students for a vocational pathway.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is a study option offering senior students the opportunity to gain a nationally-recognised qualification as part of their VCE or VCE VM programme.

Please find below important dates for you and your child - READ MORE.

Thursday 31 July, Lesson 5

Student Information Session.

Friday 1 August

Subject Selection Portal opens. The access link will be emailed directly to your student's email address. After discussing subject selection with your child, they can submit their preferences. You will then receive a link to sign off on the subjects they have selected on the portal.

Friday 15 August, 4:00pm

Web Preferences Portal closes.

Friday 31 October, 3:00pm

Subject confirmation will be emailed to students.

Parent engagement is valued, and we look forward to working with families to support students in achieving the best outcomes through selection of programmes tailored to their individual strengths, areas of interest, and ambitions.

Any queries in relation to subject selections, please don’t hesitate to contact us SubjectSelection@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au.

Year 11 into 12 in 2026 Planning Sheet

Careers Appointments

We encourage all students to book a Careers appointment to discuss their options and receive guidance on their educational journey. Bookings can be made via the College Careers page HERE.

If a parent or carer is also planning to attend, please email this information to careersstaff@notredame.vic.edu.

Please note that this is an extremely busy time for our Careers Team. We strongly encourage students to book their careers appointments early to ensure they can secure an appointment.