Experiences

Head of Year Ten: Mr Iain Taylor

Head of Year Nine: Mrs Robyn Norrlin

The Experiences Programme aims to further build on the care and education provided through the Connections Programme as students progress through Years 9 and 10. The Heads of Year and teaching staff work hand in hand guiding parents and students with their academic and pastoral needs.

The Experiences Programme provides students with a large degree of subject choice and flexibility, while providing a foundation of important skills that will be required for studies in Years 11 and 12. All students study English and Mathematics for four Semesters (Years 9 and 10), and Science and SOSE for at least three Semesters (both Semesters of Year 9 and the first Semester of Year 10).
This means students will be able to specialise at the end of the second Semester of Year 10 by reducing their load in one subject area in favour of an area where they have a particular interest. This, together with other Semester based units, means students in Years 9 and 10 will be able to explore various areas of interest before making a decision about their specialisation in Years 11 and 12.

In addition to their academic studies, students in the Experiences Programme also have the opportunity to participate in both the College outdoor education programme and structured work experience programme. The Year 9 outdoor education programme is designed to unearth hidden talent, enhance student resilience, encourage individual growth, teamwork and socialisation skills.
In Year 10 students are carefully guided through a Careers Education unit provided in Health & Personal Development classes aimed at identifying student strengths and goals for the future. The careers unit culminates in a week of structured work experience with local employers to allow students the opportunity to sample both life outside of school and a profession of their choice.

The introduction of the Queensland Certificate of Education also builds on the career education and allows students the opportunity to be recognised for a variety of learning achievements. An important part of this process is the Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan interview. These interviews, which are conducted with parents and students in conjunction with the Heads of Year and Careers Counsellor, are intended to clarify what the student hopes to achieve before and after they leave school. The College provides considerable support in assisting students to identify their pathways including research into tertiary courses as well as school- based traineeships. These SET Plans are continually monitored throughout the Credentials Programme (Years 11 and 12).

There are numerous opportunities for students’ personal and social growth throughout their time in the Experiences Programme. Carefully supported by staff, students are encouraged to participate in the full life of the College. This participation fosters positive relationships and communication skills with students and staff, promotes a sense of identity and belonging, encourages students to build resilience when faced with challenges and increases students' ability to reach their potential.