Our Secondary Curriculum
Learning with Purpose
Secondary school is a time of rapid academic, social, and emotional growth where students build their strengths, define their future pathways, and prepare for the challenges of Year 11 and 12, university, careers, and beyond.
At Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox College, every student is in an environment where they are supported academically, challenged to grow, and guided to make responsible decisions. We provide clear direction, strong educational foundations, and the tools they need to succeed in their futures.
Our approach goes beyond academics. Students develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of personal responsibility, equipping them with the skills and mindset needed for life beyond school. With a balance of academic excellence, well-being, and faith-based values, every student leaves Saint Mark’s with strong qualifications, a clear sense of purpose, and the ability to take on their next steps with confidence.
A Well-Rounded Education— Beyond Academics
At Saint Mark’s, we focus on developing confident, capable learners who are ready to engage with new ideas, solve problems, and collaborate with others.
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Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving:
Encouraging students to analyse, question, and innovate. -
Communication & Collaboration:
Developing strong verbal and written skills to express ideas effectively. -
Resilience & Adaptability:
Teaching students to embrace challenges and overcome obstacles with confidence.
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Leadership & Responsibility:
Instilling Christian values, ethics, and respect in daily interactions. -
Faith & Spiritual Growth:
Encouraging students to develop a strong sense of purpose through their Coptic Orthodox beliefs
By supporting students holistically, we create an environment where they can flourish academically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Explore Our Curriculum Stages
Years 7–8:
Foundations for Learning
Years 9–10:
Expanding Horizons
Years 11–12:
HSC & Pathways
Mathematics Acceleration Program
Technology & Digital Learning
Co-Curricular & Leadership Development
Years 7 & 8:
Strong Foundations for Learning
The early secondary years provide students with broad and engaging learning experiences across various disciplines.
Core Subjects:
- Coptic Orthodox Studies
- English
- Health and Movement Science (PDHPE)
- History & Geography
- Mathematics
- Music
- Science
- Technology & Visual Arts
Language Options:
- Arabic
- Italian
By experiencing a wide range of subjects, students develop a strong academic foundation while identifying their strengths and areas of interest, preparing them for subject selection in Years 9 and 10 and future HSC pathways.
Mathematics Acceleration (Years 8–11)
Students demonstrating advanced ability in Mathematics may be selected to participate in the Mathematics Acceleration Program, enabling them to begin studying advanced maths content ahead of their year group.
Eligibility is based on:
- Strong performance in Year 10 Mathematics (5.3 pathway)
- Semester exam and common assessment results
Consistent scores:
- 80%+ for Extension 1
- 70%+ for Advanced (Recommendation from the Mathematics Department)
This pathway provides access to Mathematics Extension 1 and Extension 2 in earlier years, giving high-achieving students a head start in HSC preparation and STEM pathways.
Years 9 & 10:
Expanding Horizons
As students progress through secondary school, they have the opportunity to discover subjects that align with their interests, talents, and future goals.
Core Subjects:
- Australian History & Geography
- Coptic Orthodox Studies
- English
- Health and Movement Science (PDHPE)
- Mathematics
- Science
Elective Subjects (Choose Two):
- Commerce
- Design & Technology
- Drama
- Food Technolog
- Graphics Technology
- Information & Software Technology
- Industrial Technology
- Music
- Physical Activity & Sports Studies
- Visual Arts
By exploring a range of elective subjects, students are able to develop a clearer understanding of their interests and strengths, ensuring they are well-prepared to choose their HSC subject pathway with confidence.
HSC: Years 11 & 12
Pathways to the Future
HSC students follow the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for university, vocational training, or employment.
- Students complete a minimum of 12 units in Year 11 and 10 units in Year 12.
- Core Subject: Coptic Orthodox Studies
- English Core Subject Options: English Advanced, English Standard, or EAL/D
Elective Subjects:
- Ancient History
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Design & Technology
- Drama
- Economics
- English Extension 1
- Food Technology
- Geography
- Industrial Technology
- Information Processes & Technology
- Investigating Science
- Legal Studies
- Mathematics (Standard or Advanced)
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Modern History
- Music
- Health and Movement Science (PDHPE)
- Physics
- Software Design & Development
- Society & Culture
- Studies of Religion (1 or 2 Units)
- Visual Arts
Year 12 Extension Subjects:
- English Extension II
- History Extension
- Mathematics Extension II
Additional Opportunities:
- Vocational Education & Training (VET) courses at TAFE
- University preparation programs
- Career mentoring & industry partnerships
By exploring a range of elective subjects, students are able to develop a clearer understanding of their interests and strengths, ensuring they are well-prepared to choose their HSC subject pathway with confidence.
Technology & Digital Learning
Technology is an integral part of secondary education in Australia, equipping students with digital literacy and independent learning habits essential for the modern world. At Saint Mark’s, students use innovative digital tools that enhance their learning experience and prepare them for higher education and the workforce.
- Google Classroom: For assignments, learning resources and collaboration.
- SEQTA Engage: For timetables, and school reports.
- Atomi & Box of Books: Digital learning platforms with curriculum-aligned content.
- Education Perfect & Clevertouch: Interactive tools for online study and revision.
By integrating technology into daily learning, students develop essential digital skills, ensuring they are confident and adaptable in an ever-increasing technology-driven world.
Co-Curricular & Leadership Development
A well-rounded education extends beyond the classroom. Our co-curricular and leadership programs nurture essential life skills, collaboration, and resilience.
- Sports & Fitness: AFL, volleyball, football, netball, swimming, athletics, and more.
- The Arts: Music lessons, Choir, drama, and public speaking.
- Student Leadership: School Representative Council (SRC) and Peer Support Programs.
- Work Experience & Career Pathways: Year 10 work experience and industry partnerships.
- Faith-Based & Community Engagement: Retreats, community service, and leadership camps.
Join Our Secondary School Community
Discover how Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox College can support your child’s academic, personal, and spiritual growth.