High School (Year 7–Year 10)

In year 7 students start high school, which presents new organisational and personal challenges. The Australian Curriculum is taught mostly by subject-specialist teachers. At this age, there is a focus on developing students’ abilities to maintain personal health and wellbeing, and manage personal relationships.In years 9 and 10, learning across the curriculum prepares students for civic, social and economic participation outside of school. Students are provided with opportunities to make choices about learning and specialise in areas that interest them through elective (optional) subjects. At this point, students bring together their knowledge and experience to consider possible pathways for study in senior secondary school and vocational education.High schools in Canberra cater for students between the ages of 12 and 16 who study from Year 7 to Year 10. • All secondary school students are enrolled in mainstream schools where they attend classes with local students and are further supported through tutorials for English language and study skills. College (Year 11–Year 12) • Students under 16 years old must live in Canberra with a Department of Home Affairs approved relative.