Learning at Woodenbong Central School

What Your Child Will Learn

At Woodenbong Central School, we follow the curriculum set by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), which outlines learning from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Primary Years (Kindergarten to Year 6)

NESA provides syllabuses across six key learning areas:

• Creative Arts
• English
• Human Society and its Environment (HSIE)
• Mathematics
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
• Science and Technology

High School Years (Year 7 to Year 12)
For our high school students, NESA develops syllabuses in eight key learning areas:

• Creative Arts
• English
• Human Society and its Environment (HSIE)
• Languages
• Mathematics
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
• Science
• Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)

Stages of Learning

The NSW curriculum is organised into six stages of learning from Kindergarten to Year 12. At Woodenbong Central School, our students progress through these stages as they develop their knowledge and skills:

• Early Stage 1:  Kindergarten
• Stage 1:  Years 1 and 2
• Stage 2:  Years 3 and 4
• Stage 3:  Years 5 and 6
• Stage 4:  Years 7 and 8
• Stage 5:  Years 9 and 10
• Stage 6:  Years 11 and 12

Primary education covers Early Stage 1 through Stage 3, while high school encompasses Stage 4 to Stage 6.

These stages help guide teaching and learning programs, ensuring that learning is developmentally appropriate and builds progressively throughout your child’s schooling.

For more information about the NSW curriculum and learning stages, please contact the school or visit the NESA website.

Our Approach to Teaching

At Woodenbong Central School, we use explicit teaching. This means we clearly explain to students what they are learning, why it matters, and guide them step-by-step through the process. Breaking new ideas into manageable parts helps students understand and master new concepts more effectively.

Our learning environment is student-centred, inclusive, and practical. We are committed to equity and ensuring every student has access to quality education. Our teachers support diverse learning styles and needs by using evidence-based teaching strategies. They engage in ongoing professional development to keep up to date with the best teaching practices.

Our approach includes:

• Real-world learning: hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and exploration of new ideas
• Technology: integrating digital tools to enhance learning and build essential digital skills
• Flexible teaching: providing personalised support with a strong focus on student wellbeing
• Community connections: enriching learning through excursions and local partnerships

Like all NSW schools, Woodenbong Central School designs teaching and learning programs tailored to our local community, addressing the diverse needs of our students. Our programs follow the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) syllabuses, ensuring every student receives a high-quality education across all key learning areas.

We are dedicated to culturally responsive teaching, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and making adjustments to meet the needs of students with disabilities and those learning English as an additional language or dialect.

To learn more about curriculum in NSW, please visit:

• NSW Department of Education – Key Learning Areas
• NESA’s Parent Guide - Schooling in NSW

If you have any questions about our curriculum or teaching and learning programs, please contact the school.

Helping Student Progress

At Woodenbong Central School, we are committed to supporting every student’s learning and growth by:

• Regularly monitoring progress and providing clear, timely feedback
• Setting personalised learning goals with each student
• Offering extra support through individual learning plans and specialist assistance
• Keeping parents and carers informed with detailed reports on student progress
• Providing targeted literacy and numeracy support in small group sessions
• Incorporating wellbeing into everyday learning experiences
• Collaborating with families to support learning both at home and at school
• Helping students successfully navigate key transitions, such as starting school or moving to new learning stages

Learn more about additional learning support additional learning support at our school or contact us contact us for further information.

Creative Arts

Creative Arts is a mandatory subject for all students from Kindergarten to Year 6. In these early years, students explore a variety of art forms including dance, drama, music, and visual arts. Through Creative Arts, students learn to appreciate, compose, listen, create, and perform, developing unique knowledge and skills in each art form. These experiences inspire creativity and enrich students’ lives.

All Year 7 and 8 students at Woodenbong Central School study Visual Arts and Music as part of their mandatory curriculum. These subjects provide a strong foundation in artistic skills and creativity, allowing students to explore various techniques and deepen their appreciation of the arts.

In Years 9 and 10, Visual Arts and Music become elective subjects. Students also have the opportunity to choose from other creative arts electives such as Drama, Dance, Photography, and Visual Design. This allows them to further develop their interests and talents in the arts.

For Years 11 and 12, Woodenbong Central School offers Visual Arts and Music 1 as elective subjects. Our senior elective programs are designed to support students in refining their skills, preparing for further study, and fostering a lifelong passion for the arts.

English

English is a mandatory subject for all students from Kindergarten through to Year 12 in NSW, and Woodenbong Central School follows this requirement closely.

Throughout their schooling, students study the English language in its many forms, including spoken, written, and visual texts. These varied forms help students understand how meaning is created, conveyed, interpreted, and reflected. As students progress, the complexity of texts and language use increases, supporting their growing proficiency.

Developing strong skills in English empowers students to become confident communicators, critical and imaginative thinkers, lifelong learners, and informed, active members of society. English learning contributes significantly to students’ intellectual, social, and emotional growth.

We aim to cultivate a love of literature and learning by providing challenging and enjoyable English experiences. Our programs encourage students to explore ideas creatively, work collaboratively, reflect on their progress, and become independent learners.

In Years 11 and 12, English study remains compulsory, with a range of courses offered to meet diverse student needs and goals, including:

• English Extension 2
• English Extension 1
• English Advanced
• English Standard
• English Studies
• English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
• English Life Skills

At Woodenbong Central School, we are committed to supporting every student to achieve their best in English and develop the skills vital for their future success.

Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE)

At Woodenbong Central School, the key learning area of Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) includes mandatory study of history and geography from Kindergarten to Year 10. Through HSIE, students explore a wide range of topics about people, societies, cultures, and the environments in which they live.

In these early and middle years, students develop important skills such as researching, gathering and analysing information, questioning and making judgements, and writing for various purposes. These skills help students understand the world around them and their place within it.

From Years 7 to 10 (Stages 4 and 5), students also have the opportunity to choose elective subjects within HSIE, allowing them to deepen their understanding of specific areas of interest within human society and the environment.

In Years 11 and 12, students can select from a variety of HSIE courses to suit their interests and career goals, including:

• Aboriginal Studies
• Ancient History
• Ancient History Life Skills
• Business Studies
• Economics
• Geography
• History Extension
• Legal Studies
• Modern History
• Modern History Life Skills
• Society and Culture
• Studies of Religion

Woodenbong Central School is committed to providing engaging HSIE learning experiences that build critical thinking, cultural awareness, and informed citizenship.

Languages

Primary School (K-6):

In NSW primary schools, the study of a language is optional. This allows younger students to explore languages and cultures according to their interests and readiness.

High School (Years 7-10):

Learning a language is a compulsory part of the curriculum. Students complete at least 100 hours of language study during one continuous year, preferably in Year 7 or 8. This helps students build strong communication skills and gain an appreciation for the rich relationship between language and culture.

At Woodenbong Central School, we offer language study beginning in Year 7, where it is a compulsory part of the curriculum. This program helps students develop important communication skills and gain an understanding of the connection between language and culture.

Mathematics

At Woodenbong Central School, the study of mathematics is an essential part of every student’s education. From Kindergarten through to Year 10, mathematics is a mandatory subject designed to build a strong foundation in mathematical thinking and skills. Our students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that promotes fluency, deep understanding, effective problem-solving, logical reasoning, and clear communication of mathematical ideas.

The mathematics syllabus is organised into three key strands:

• Number and Algebra:  Developing skills in working with numbers, patterns, and relationships.
• Measurement and Geometry:  Exploring properties and relationships of shapes, space, and measurement.
• Statistics and Probability:  Understanding data collection, analysis, and the chance of events occurring.

These strands ensure that students develop a balanced and broad mathematical knowledge that can be applied in real-world contexts and future learning.

In Years 11 and 12, mathematics becomes an optional subject, allowing students to choose courses that best align with their interests, abilities, and future pathways. Woodenbong Central School offers a diverse selection of courses, including:

• Mathematics Extension 2  (Year 12 only) – for students seeking the highest level of challenge.
• Mathematics Extension 1  – advancing students’ skills beyond the standard curriculum.
• Mathematics Advanced  – focusing on complex mathematical concepts and problem solving.
• Mathematics Standard 2  – providing practical and theoretical mathematics suited to many life and career pathways.
• Mathematics Standard 1  – with an optional HSC examination, tailored for students who want to strengthen essential numeracy skills.
• Mathematics Life Skills  – designed to support students with additional learning needs in developing everyday mathematical skills.

Our goal is to nurture confident, capable mathematicians who are prepared for academic success, vocational pursuits, and everyday problem-solving. We encourage all students to engage fully with mathematics and to appreciate its value in a wide range of personal and professional contexts.

Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) is a mandatory part of the curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 10 at Woodenbong Central School. Aligned with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) guidelines, students in Kindergarten to Year 6 participate in PDHPE for between 1.5 and 2.5 hours per week. In Years 7 to 10, students engage in PDHPE for approximately 300 hours annually.

At Woodenbong Central School, students in Years 9 and 10 have the opportunity to select PASS (Physical Activity and Sport Studies) as an elective. PASS allows students to deepen their understanding of physical activity, sport, and health, while developing practical skills and leadership abilities.

PDHPE offers students valuable opportunities to explore important issues that affect their health, safety, and wellbeing, both now and in the future. Through this subject, students also take part in challenging and enjoyable physical activities that help them develop skills, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for movement and fitness.

In Years 11 and 12, students can choose from a variety of PDHPE-related courses to suit their interests and career goals, including:

• Community and Family Studies
• Community and Family Studies Life Skills
• Exploring Early Childhood
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education Life Skills
• Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies

Our PDHPE program supports students in building healthy, active lifestyles and equips them with knowledge and skills essential for personal wellbeing and positive community participation.

Science and Technology

Science and Technology is a mandatory subject for all students from Kindergarten to Year 6 at Woodenbong Central School. In these early years, students engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning that encourages curiosity about the natural and built environments. They explore fundamental scientific concepts and develop basic technological skills through practical activities and investigations designed to spark their interest and build a strong foundation for future learning.

From Year 7 to Year 10, Science remains compulsory, equipping students with essential knowledge and skills to understand the natural and constructed worlds around them. Students explore a variety of contexts, applying scientific and technological skills to investigate and solve problems. The Years 7 to 10 Science curriculum encourages inquiry-based learning, focusing on evidence-based investigation and practical solutions to real-world challenges. Students develop critical and creative thinking alongside scientific skills.

In Years 11 and 12, students can select from a range of science subjects tailored to their interests and future goals, including:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Earth and Environmental Science
• Investigating Science
• Physics

Additionally, Year 12 students studying at least one other science subject may choose to undertake Science Extension, which offers an advanced level of scientific study and inquiry.

Our Science and Technology program aims to inspire curiosity, enhance scientific literacy, and prepare students for further education and careers in science and technology fields.

Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)

Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) is a mandatory subject for all students in Years 7 and 8 at Woodenbong Central School. In addition to the compulsory TAS courses, students have the opportunity to select from a range of elective TAS subjects to further develop their skills and interests.

In TAS, students gain knowledge, understanding, and practical skills through a design and production process. They use a variety of tools, materials, and techniques in both theory and hands-on lessons, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise.

The technology learning continuum at Woodenbong Central School includes:

• Mandated learning from Kindergarten to Year 8 through the  Science and Technology K-6  and  Technology Mandatory Years 7-8  syllabuses.
• A progressive development of students’ ability to apply knowledge, skills, and understanding to design and produce practical solutions.
• Optional specialisation in high school through a diverse range of elective subjects targeting specific technologies and design aspects.

High school TAS courses available at Woodenbong Central School include:

• Technology Mandatory Years 7-8
• Agricultural Technology Years 7-10
• Design and Technology Years 7-10
• Food Technology Years 7-10
• Graphics Technology Years 7-10
• Industrial Technology Years 7-10
• Information and Software Technology Years 7-10
• Textiles Technology Years 7-10

For senior students (Stage 6), elective courses include:

• Agriculture
• Design and Technology
• Engineering Studies
• Food Technology
• Industrial Technology
• Information Processes and Technology
• Software Design and Development
• Textiles and Design

Additionally, Woodenbong Central School offers Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects for Stage 6 students, including:

• Hospitality
• Furnishings
• Primary Industries

Our TAS and VET programs are designed to equip students with practical skills, industry knowledge, and hands-on experience, preparing them for further education, training, and career opportunities in a variety of technical and applied fields.

Special Religious Education and Special Education in Ethics

Special Religious Education and Special Education in Ethics

NSW public schools, offer Special Religious Education (SRE) and Special Education in Ethics (SEE), delivered by approved providers where available.

At Woodenbong Central School SRE is an optional program available for students from Kindergarten to Year 10. When enrolling your child, you can choose a Special Religious Education option from the approved providers available at our school. If you prefer, you may withdraw your child from SRE by selecting alternative meaningful activities or, where available, Special Education in Ethics.

You can update your preference at any time by writing to the school or through the online form provided at participating schools.

For more information about Special Religious Education and Special Education in Ethics, please visit the NSW Department of Education website:   Religion and Ethics

Curriculum Resources Used at Woodenbong Central School:

• Primary SRE curriculum:  GodSpace
• Secondary SRE curriculum:  Protestant Youth NSW (PYN)

We encourage parents and carers to explore these resources to better understand the content and values taught through these programs.

For more information, visit the department’s website or contact us.

High Potential and Gifted Education

At Woodenbong Central School, we provide the right support to help advanced and talented learners reach their full potential.

We identify these students early, recognising those who learn quickly or show strong abilities in creativity, leadership, problem-solving, or sport. We ensure they remain engaged and challenged with lessons and activities tailored to their strengths.

If you would like to learn more about how we support high potential and gifted learners, please contact us.

Careers Education

Careers education is an important part of the curriculum at Woodenbong Central School, designed to support students from Year 7 through to Year 12 in planning their future pathways.

The program aims to help students develop self-awareness, explore career options, and make informed decisions about their education, training, and employment. Through a range of activities, students gain skills in goal setting, resume writing, interview preparation, and understanding the world of work.

In senior years, Careers education becomes more targeted to individual student needs, with opportunities for personalised career counselling, work experience placements, and engagement with industry and training providers.

Careers education equips students with the knowledge and skills to transition confidently from school to further study, apprenticeships, traineeships, or employment.

School-Based Traineeships and Apprenticeships

Woodenbong Central School supports senior students in Years 11 and 12 to gain practical work experience and industry skills through school-based traineeships and apprenticeships. These opportunities allow students to combine their senior studies with paid employment and vocational training, providing a valuable pathway towards a career.

What are School-Based Traineeships and Apprenticeships?

• They are structured training programs where students work with an employer while completing their HSC.
• Students gain nationally recognised qualifications and workplace experience in a range of industries.
• Traineeships and apprenticeships are paid and can contribute towards the requirements for the Higher School Certificate (HSC).

Benefits for Students:

• Develop practical skills and knowledge in real workplace settings.
• Enhance career prospects and employability.
• Build networks with potential future employers.
• Balance school education with hands-on training.

Support at Woodenbong Central School:

• Guidance and assistance in finding suitable traineeship or apprenticeship opportunities.
• Coordination with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to deliver the required training.
• Ongoing monitoring and support to help students successfully manage work and study commitments.

Students interested in school-based traineeships or apprenticeships are encouraged to speak with the Careers Adviser explore available options and begin the enrolment process.

For more information please visit What are School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) or download the School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships Fact Sheet