Secondary CURRICULUM

Click here for the 2025 Subject Selection Handbook (Years 8-12)

English
Students are taught the skills of reading, viewing, writing, speaking and listening. Grammar and spelling are taught explicitly and the skills of responding to text, writing creatively and analysing language are developed. Wide reading is encouraged across all levels of secondary school.
NAPLAN testing is conducted in Years 7 and 9. Students have the opportunity to compete in debating, writing and public speaking competitions as part of the College's cocurricular program.

Mathematics
Mathematics is a core subject to Year 10 and the teachers at Marymede focus on building student confidence and enjoyment of the subject. Mathematics is everywhere in life, therefore students are encouraged to use technology in their study and apply their mathematical learnings to everyday life.
From Year 10, students choose the level of Mathematics that they will study, which sets up their mathematical studies pathway into their final years of schooling. At VCE, all Mathematics subjects are offered during the subject selection process.

Science
Science is a core subject to Year 10, including studies in biology, chemistry, earth and space, and physics. During these years, students are exposed to a dynamic body of knowledge and discovery through hands-on activities and experimentation.
From Year 11, VCE study is offered in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology.

Humanities
The Humanities is a vibrant area of study with real-world relevance. In Years 7-10, History, Geography, Commerce and Civics & Citizenship are taught, with a broader range of elective options available in Year 10.
From Year 11, VCE study is offered in Accounting, Business Management, Economics, History, Geography and Legal Studies.

Health and Physical Education
All Year 7-10 students undertake an integrated study of Health and Physical Education. It is an intensive and diverse program that takes an innovative and experience-based approach to health and physical fitness.
The Health and PE teaching team inspire students to make physical activity part of their lives, rather than just part of their education. The program is challenging and results in positive attitudes to personal health and activity.
The program develops skills and tactics in different games, as well building knowledge in important topics such as nutrition, the human body and Australia’s health.
From Year 11, VCE study is offered in PE and Health and Human Development.

Performing Arts
The Performing Arts of dance and drama are undertaken by students in Years 7-10. Students study a combination of practical elements that develop confidence, as well as theory based study that builds analytical skills.
VCE Drama, VCE Dance and VET Dance are offered to Year 11 and 12 students and is perfectly complementary to a traditional VCE study selection.

Music
Music study at Marymede is cutting edge and state-of-the-art. The College has made significant investment in instruments and performance equipment to raise the calibre of music education.
Students in Years 7-10 have the opportunity to learn a band instrument such as drums, guitar or keyboard, as well the ability for regular public performance and co-curricular music events. Vocalists are also supported and benefit from the latest equipment.
A Music education at Marymede is complete with the study of Units 1-4 VCE and/or VET Music in Years 11 and 12.

Visual Arts 
Visual Arts engage students in critical and creative thinking. They learn about the design process and develop practical skills in making and presenting works of art.
Visual Arts students learn techniques in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, woodwork, digital photography and digital design.
The study of Visual Arts can help to engage students in a creative and innovative way in all aspects of their learning. 
VCE Visual Communication and Design and Studio Arts are offered to Year 11 and 12 students.

Languages
The study of a language other than English prepares students for the global society in which they will live and work. Marymede runs a highly successful program in which students build their skills with their teachers and fluent language assistants.
Languages are taught in a full immersion setting. Student learning is supported through cultural activities and state-based writing competitions. A study tour to Japan is offered, as well as extended stays at our sister school in Veneto, Italy.
All students study a language (Italian or Japanese) in Years 7 & 8, with continued study optional from Year 9 onwards. Italian and Japanese are currently offered at VCE level.

Technologies
Students develop their knowledge and skill in digital technologies, food studies, resistant and non-resistant materials in Years 7 & 8. From Year 9 onwards, students are encouraged to select elective subjects to further develope their aptitude in these subjects in preparation for VCE studies in Information Technology, Food Studies and/or Product Design or for an applied learning pathway.

VCE Vocation Major (VM)
The VCE Vocational Major (VM) is a vocational and applied learning program within the VCE designed to be completed over a minimum of two years. The VCE VM will give students greater choice and flexibility to pursue their strengths and interests and develop the skills and capabilities needed to succeed in further education, work and life.

It prepares students to move into apprenticeships, traineeships, further education and training, university (via non-ATAR pathways) or directly into the workforce.

The purpose of the VCE VM is to provide students with the best opportunity to achieve their personal goals and aspirations in a rapidly changing world by:-equipping them with the skills, knowledge, values and capabilities to be active and informed citizens, lifelong learners and confident and creative individuals; and-empowering them to make informed decisions about the next stages of their lives through real life workplace experiences..

Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Vocational Education and Training is a certificate or partial completion of a certificate delivered in units of study that contribute towards successful completion of VCE or VCAL. The VET units, teach students the standards and skills required in a particular industry. For example, students studying hospitality will undertake some of their training in a working, commercial kitchen.
The VET pathway can lead to further tertiary education, TAFE qualifications or employment.
VCE VET units have equal status to other VCE studies and results may contribute an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) score.