Humanities and Social Sciences

Studying Humanities and the Social Sciences offers students a fascinating insight into the captivating realm of human experiences, societies, and the complexities of our interconnected world. This multidisciplinary field encompasses History, Economics, Geography, Politics and Law and Business principles, and philosophy. Through Humanities and Social Sciences, students will develop a deeper understanding of the human condition, its diversity, and the factors that shape societies and cultures. They will explore the rich tapestry of human history, examining the triumphs, challenges, and lessons learned from different eras and civilisations. Moreover, they will analyse social structures, institutions, and systems, gaining insights into the dynamics of power, inequality, and social change. Humanities and the Social Sciences foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to construct persuasive arguments supported by evidence. They encourage empathy, cultural sensitivity, and the exploration of ethical questions, equipping students with the tools to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to positive societal transformations. Furthermore, studying Humanities and the Social Sciences cultivates a strong foundation for communication, research, and interpretation, which are valuable capabilities applicable across various professional fields. By studying Humanities and the Social Sciences, students will embark on a lifelong journey of intellectual exploration, fostering a profound understanding of human nature, societies, and the world we inhabit.

  • The Accounting and Finance ATAR course offers students a lifelong grounding in financial literacy by exploring the systems and processes that inform global decisions. Students will gain an awareness of financial practices and the social, ethical and environmental factors which underpin them. Further to this, students will engage with digital financial and accounting systems. The Accounting and Finance ATAR course will prepare students for a dynamic workforce where business management and strategic thinking are required. The syllabus continues on from the 7-10 Economics and Business Curriculum and builds on skills of interpretation and analysis.

    Review the Accounting and Finance ATAR syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: 60% in Year 10 Humanities and 60% or higher in Year 10 Maths Mainstream (or completion of Mathematics Acceleration)

  • The Economics ATAR course explores the ongoing dilemma of society in seeking to balance our wants with available resources. In this way, students will seek to understand the allocation, utilisation and distribution of resources which determine the wellbeing of nations, groups and individuals. Students will adopt an economist’s mindset to identify problems, collect information and develop informed decisions. The objective of this course is economic literacy through exploration of market efficiency, market failure, gains from trade and economic policy.

    View the Economics ATAR syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: 60% in Year 10 Humanities

  • The Geography ATAR course allows students to explore the diversity of the world’s places, cultures and environment. Through a structured framework, students will explore the complexities of Australia’s geography, including natural and ecological hazards, the impacts of globalisation and sustainability. This course requires students to apply conceptual knowledge as well as interpreting information from a range of sources while also completing field work. Students will develop skills in data collection, mapping, remote sensing and report writing.

    Review the Geography ATAR syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: 60% in Year 10 Humanities

  • The Modern History ATAR course allows students to reflect on the moments and forces that have shaped our world. With a distinct focus on the 20th century, students will reflect on local, national and global conflicts, the recognition of human rights and the changing tides of power. Students will develop an understanding of specific events which have shaped the modern world while growing their ability to inquire, research and evaluate sources. Further to this, students will be empowered by their knowledge as informed citizens who can analyse, critique and engage in constructive debate.

    Unit One: Understanding the Modern World Capitalism – The American Experience (1907-1941)

    Unit Two: Movements for Change in the 20th Century Nazism in Germany

    Review the Modern History ATAR syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: 60% in Year 10 Humanities

  • The Politics and Law ATAR course focuses on the structures underpinning decision making in society as well as the laws governing the conduct of people, societies and nations. Students will gain an insight into the judicial, executive and legislative arms of government and how laws are formed. Through their review of a range of sources, students will develop skills in political and legal inquiry as well as their appreciation of democracy, the rule of law and the structures of electoral voting and justice systems in Western Australia.

    Review the Politics and Law ATAR syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: 60% in Year 10 Humanities

  • The Careers and Employability General course equips students with the knowledge and skills to proactively manage their careers in a changing and digital world. It focuses on developing employability skills and career management strategies to prepare students for the world of work and lifelong learning.

    Students will explore different types of employment, how workplaces are structured, and how technology is shaping the future of work. They’ll take part in practical activities such as building a personal career portfolio, learning about workplace rights and responsibilities, and developing essential communication and problem-solving skills.

    This course prepares students to make informed decisions about their career paths, adapt to new opportunities, and confidently navigate their futures.

    Pre-Requisites: Students who are enrolled in an external VET (Certificate) course and/or workplace learning in Year 11 2025 are required to enrol in the Career and Enterprise General course.

    You can review the Careers and Employability syllabus here.

  • The Modern History GENERAL course provides students with an understanding of the forces behind contemporary local and global issues. Students will develop skills of research, hypothesis testing and analysis. Through an enquiry approach, students will learn about the complex nature of historical judgements as they evaluate the reliability of sources. Through their study of Modern History, students will grow in their appreciation of how the values and belief systems of groups form. This course provides students with necessary skills of research, interpretation and communication that are well aligned to a range of other subjects - such as English Literature GENERAL and Religion and Life GENERAL - as well as a range of pathways for study following high school.

    Modern History GENERAL Unit One: People, place and time

    • Napoleon, the Revolution and the Empire

    • Nicholas II and the decline of Tsarism

    Modern History Unit Two: Power and authority

    • International authority: the League of Nations and the United Nations

    • Authoritarian states: Communist Russia/USSR 1917–1953

    Review the Modern History GENERAL syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: NIL

  • The Business Management and Enterprise GENERAL course provides students with an exciting opportunity to unpack the vital role business plays in our society. This course focuses on the development of skills necessary for the development, day-to-day running and growth of businesses. Students will be called to think both creatively and strategically as they learn how to build businesses and make informed decisions. This course equips students with foundational skills in business and is ideal for students who are considering starting their own business or entering the industrial, entrepreneurial or corporate sectors.

    Unit 1: Establishing a small business in Australia

    Unit 2: Operating a small business in Australia

    Review the Business Management and Enterprise GENERAL syllabus here.

    Course Pre-Requisites: NIL

  • Launching in 2026, the Humanities and Social Sciences in Action General course is designed to empower students to become informed, active participants in their communities. The course focuses on contemporary social issues, human rights, and the role of individuals and groups in effecting positive change.

    Students will explore topics such as community engagement, social justice, and the impact of social movements. Through practical activities, they will develop skills in research, critical thinking, and effective communication. Tasks may include investigating local community initiatives, analyzing case studies on human rights, and planning social action projects.

    This course offers students the opportunity to understand and influence the world around them, preparing them for active citizenship and diverse career pathways.

    Review the Humanities and Social Sciences syllabus here.

  • This qualification allows students to develop the necessary skills for a variety of professional contexts. Through experience and inquiry, students will become familiar with the procedures and operations of the workplace with a focus on business administration.

    Units of competency in this certificate include:

    • Being able to plan and apply time management

    • Working effectively with others

    • Using digital technologies to communicate in a work environment

    • Contributing to the health and safety of others

    Certificate II in Workplace skills can lead to Certificate III in Business in Year 12 or Certificate IV in Business in Year 12

    Course Pre-Requisites: NIL

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