Curriculum
Our curriculum delivery reflects our school vision that Ballarat High School is a learning community where every person is valued, respected and challenged as a learner.
This is evident in our IMBHS instructional model that has been developed by our teaching staff, in collaboration with students and parents. Our instructional model outlines clear teaching and learning expectations for both students and teachers and provides us with a shared language to discuss our learning.
Year 7 and 8
Our Year 7 program is designed to support our new students’ transition into our school as smoothly as possible. Our focus is on ensuring students feel confident, happy, connected and ready to learn. Our curriculum is designed to meet the specific needs of our students with a targeted focus on literacy and numeracy.
The Year 7 program is located in the ARCH Building. We have a dedicated team of staff, including a Year 7 Curriculum Learning Specialist, assigned to ensure this program meets the learning and wellbeing needs of our students.
| Core subjects | Art/Technology rotation |
| English | Ceramics |
| Humanities | Home Economics |
| Maths | Metal & wood |
| Science | STEM |
| Health & Physical Education | Textiles |
| Japanese or German | Visual Arts |
| Music | Visual Communication & Design (VCD) |
| Drama |
The Year 8 program builds on the key competencies developed in year 7 with students continuing with core classes and completing the remaining art/technology rotation subjects.
Year 9 and 10
In the middle school, students have greater choice in their learning as they begin to focus on their individual pathways.
At Year 9, students are able to consolidate their learning by choosing elective subjects within their area of interest. This allows students to study in areas they enjoy and explore other learning opportunities. Our Year 9 structure includes both compulsory core subjects and a range of electives. Core subjects include English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Applied Learning and Health.
For information about Year 9 Electives see: Arch Facts 2025
In Year 10, students select six 5 period subjects per semester. All students must undertake an English, Maths and a Science subject in Year 10. Otherwise, students are advised to select subjects from a range of learning areas that reflect their interests and strengths. Year 10 students can also apply to undertake a VET or VCE study.
For more information see: High Facts 2025
Year 11 and 12
The senior school curriculum is structured so students are able to pursue pathways which suit their individual needs, interests and abilities.
Over the final two years students will complete a pathway to further study or employment. They may choose to do this through studying for one of the following certificates:
- VCE – Victorian Certificate of Education
- VCE VM – Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major
For more information see: High Facts 2025
