Learning
Our college follows the NSW curriculum and we create a learning environment that is supportive, inclusive and focused on student growth. Every student is valued and encouraged to build confidence through meaningful learning.
Our broad range of subjects and engaging teaching methods help students build skills and reach their potential. We aim to develop creative thinkers, problem-solvers and lifelong learners.
Our learning approach
Learning at our college is student-centred, inclusive and practical. We are committed to equity and access, supporting all learning styles and needs. Our teachers use proven strategies and take part in ongoing professional development to stay up to date with best teaching practice.
Our approach includes:
- real-world learning through hands-on activities, group work and exploring ideas
- using technology to support learning, personalise lessons and build digital skills
- giving students the right support with flexible teaching and a focus on wellbeing
- connecting with the community through excursions and local programs.
Beyond the classroom - see how our students extend their learning through our co-curricular programs, events, excursions and other opportunities.
Assessment and reporting
Our teachers use a variety of strategies to assess student learning.
Teachers observe students' work in class and look closely at tasks throughout the year. They also formally assess a student's achievement based on the outcomes described in the syllabus of the subject.
As a parent or carer, you’ll receive a written report twice a year. It gives you a clear picture of your child’s achievements – what they know and can do.
In Years 7 to 10, we use the common grade scale in reporting. In Year 11, we use the Preliminary grade scale.
Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses are assessed on achievement of competencies.
Assessments
We provide detailed information to students about what we expect from them throughout the year and how their work will be assessed. Students have a number of formal assessments throughout their schooling.
- National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) – reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, punctuation and grammar) and numeracy tests for students in Years 7 and 9. The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) holds the tests in May each year. Results and student reports are released in August.
- Validation of Assessment for Learning and Individual Development (VALID) – online diagnostic science assessments for students in Year 8. Some schools also choose to sit the tests in Year 10.
- The Record of School Achievement (RoSA) is awarded to eligible students who leave school before completing their Higher School Certificate. The RoSA records a student’s grades between the end of Year 10 and when they leave school.
- The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is an internationally recognised qualification awarded to students who successfully complete Years 11 and 12 in NSW.
- Some students may apply for placement in a selective high school. For more information, visit selective high schools and opportunity classes.
Year 7 and 8
Year 7 and 8 students at either campus must apply to the academy program or undertake a personal interest project (PIP).
Academy program
Year 7 and 8 students can apply to one of three special interest academies:
- Creative industries
- Sports
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths)
The academy program provides students who have a special interest to further develop in this area.
Each academy is allocated 2 hours of class time per week.
Entry into an academy is by application only.
Apply to an academy
Download an academy application form. Please return the completed form to the student's campus by email.
- Creative industries academy application form (PDF 193 KB)
- Sports academy application form (PDF 209 KB)
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) (PDF 210 KB)
Personal interest project (PIP)
Students not involved in the academy program must select a personal interest project (PIP). PIP subjects vary from year to year. They allow students to experience a variety of real world learning.
PIP subject selections
Download a PIP subject selection form. Please return the completed form to the student's campus by email.
Port Macquarie campus
- Port Macquarie Campus PIP Choices 2025 (PDF 160 KB)
- Port Macquarie Campus PIP selection form 2025 (PDF 1086 KB)
Westport campus
Year 9 and 10
Students moving into Year 9 can select the electives they would like to study in Year 10 (Stage 5). Students moving into Year 10 can change their 1 year (100 hour) course selection.
The current Stage 5 Curriculum Guide is available below, Each year the Stage 5 Curriculum guide is updated during Term 2.
Included in the Stage 5 Curriculum Guide is information on the curriculum structure for Year 9, and information on mandatory and elective subjects.
More information on elective selection
Students in Year 8 students are provided with the guide in Term 2 each year and given the opportunity to learn more about the subjects on offer to them at our Subject Selection afternoon.
Port Macquarie Campus - Stage 5 Curriculum Guide 2025 (PDF 3.9 MB)
Westport Campus - Stage 5 Curriculum Guide 2025 (PDF 3.4 MB)
How and when?
Subject selections are made online.
Year 8 students will be provided with a unique code and step by step instruction on using the online subject selection platform.
Further advice on elective selection
Parents and carers with questions about elective selection are invited and encouraged to attend the Subject Information afternoon. If you are unable to attend, parents may contact the College and speak with their child’s Year Advisor, the Head Teacher of the subject of interest, or the Deputy Principal for their child’s year group.
We provide quality advice and guidance to students through a comprehensive, supportive subject selection process.
When your child is in Year 10, they will begin to understand their individual interests and aspirations better and will start to plan for their future. Students doing work experience begin to understand the expectations of them in the world of work.
The Senior Studies Guide contains essential information to help you and your child make informed decisions about the range of courses and pathways available.
Timeline for subject selection
Term 2 Week 6
- Senior Studies Guide issued.
- Careers Advisers provide information about the Higher School Certificate (HSC), Courses, VET courses and the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) requirements.
Term 2 Weeks 7-8
- Students to speak at school with teachers regarding specific subject information, recommended subjects and options (specifically Mathematics and English options).
Term 2 Week 8
- Subject Information Evening - Thursday 20th June 6.00pm to 8.00pm Panthers Auditorium.
- Students submit INITIAL subject selections online ON THE NIGHT or by 2.15pm Friday 21st June.
- All students and parents are invited to attend meetings at their home campus (Week 3) where they will have the opportunity to discuss the subject lines and submit final selections.
HSC
The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is awarded to students who have completed Year 11 and Year 12. There is a minimum standard of literacy and numeracy required to receive the HSC.
Further information on HSC:
Year 11 and 12
We provide quality advice and guidance to students through a comprehensive, supportive subject selection process.
When your child is in Year 10, they will begin to understand their individual interests and aspirations better and will start to plan for their future. Students doing work experience begin to understand the expectations of them in the world of work.
The Senior Studies Guide contains essential information to help you and your child make informed decisions about the range of courses and pathways available.
Download the Senior Study Guide
HSC
The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is awarded to students who have completed Year 11 and Year 12. There is a minimum standard of literacy and numeracy required to receive the HSC.
Further information on HSC:
- Read HSC minimum standard information (PFD 294 KB) or view the presentation for students
- NSW Education Standards (NESA)
Pathways to senior success
Your subject choices should reflect your strengths and interests, and support your career aspirations. Plus, if you enjoy the subjects you study you're more likely to do well in them. By the end of Term 2, all year 10 students will be choosing their subjects for year 11.
ATAR
Students wanting access to University, College or TAFE will undertake a pattern of study which provides them with an ATAR.
We offer specialist academic support through the College ASC (Academic Study Centre). The ASC provides targeted assistance to students, helping them enhance their understanding and excel in their studies. With this combination of a robust curriculum and dedicated academic support, we aim to empower our students to achieve their full potential and succeed in their educational journey. Each student will be guided in the creation of a suitable pattern of subjects which reflects their personal goals and meets their tertiary requirements.
FLEX
FLEX is a specialised program designed to support students who are still exploring their career pathways.
It offers a unique combination of vocational and academic courses. By providing this diverse range of subjects, FLEX enables students to gain practical skills and experiences while continuing their academic studies. These vocational courses expose students to various industries and professions, helping them discover the interests and talents.
The program ensures they receive a solid foundation in academic subjects to maintain flexibility in the educational journey. FLEX aims to empower students to make informed decisions about their future careers by equipping them with both practical and academic knowledge.
Industry Based Training (IBT) OR Fast Track to Employment (FT2E)
This is a pathway specifically designed for students who are looking to enter the workforce with both the HSC and vocational qualifications or for students who will benefit from intensive support to build employability skills and workplace literacies.
Students will have the opportunity to design a personalised pathway, which includes College vocational courses, integrated work placement, access to TAFE courses free of charge and the possibility of a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship. Students will attain an HSC credential and an Australian Qualification Framework credential, including Certificate II and Certificate III, which can be used to accelerate further vocational studies.
School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT)
Students at Hastings Secondary College can undertake a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT). An SBAT can help students get a head start in their careers by combining paid work, training and school.
SBAT students earn an industry recognised national qualification and unit credits toward their HSC.
Undertaking an SBAT in Year 10 or Year 11 and is an appropriate step towards vocational education and training (VET) or university post school pathways.
High potential and gifted students
Aurora college
Aurora College is a virtual school that offers classes for students in Year 7 to Year 12 who are enrolled in rural and remote government schools in New South Wales, Australia. The school uses a virtual learning environment, including web conferencing software and a learning management system, to connect students with teachers and classmates.
Aurora College offers Selective School classes in English, Mathematics, and Science for students in Year 7 to Year 10. For Year 11 and Year 12 students, Aurora College provides an opportunity to study one or more Preliminary and/or Higher School Certificate subjects that may not be available in their local school. The rest of the curriculum is studied in their local government school.
Aurora College also offers residential schools where students can meet and work with their peers and teachers. This program includes lessons, tutorials, mentoring sessions, and programs with business partners, including the Australian Business Community Network. Students can also participate in excursions, activities, and events to experience the host area.
Aurora Application
Aurora College is a virtual selective school offering selective placement for high potential and gifted students in Year 7 to Year 10.
Entry into Aurora College's selective program is determined by a student's results in the Selective High School Placement Test in English, Mathematics, and General Ability, together with their primary school's assessment of their performance in English and Mathematics. Other evidence of academic merit may also be considered.
If you are interested in applying for Aurora College, you must be enrolled in a rural and remote NSW Department of Education school.
Years 8 to 12 entry to selective high schools in 2025 Application form (PDF 609 KB)
Application Information for Parents (PDF 278 KB)
Aurora College - Information at a Glance (PDF 290 KB)
For more information, visit the Department’s Selective High School Placement website.
Zenith program
High performing Year 7 and 8 students at either campus can apply to the Zenith program. Students in the Zenith program study a compacted and more challenging version of the core curriculum. These classes enhance problem solving and critical thinking skills in high achieving students.
Acceptance into the Zenith class decided based on a combination of:
- academic ability and achievement (Year 5 and 6 reports)
- skills in literacy and numeracy
- ability to work independently
- ability to think critically and creatively
- primary teacher nomination
- information from parents and caregivers on the expression of interest (done via your primary school website)
Students applying for placement in a Zenith class may also apply to the academy program or personal interest project (PIP). Membership in an academy or PIP will complement the Zenith program as they fit together as part of a weekly curriculum program.
Apply to the Zenith program
Download a Zenith program application form. Please return the completed form to the student's campus by email.
School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)
Unlock potential for both employers and students with the School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT) program.
SBAT Student EOI Form
Hastings Secondary College students can register their interest for an SbAT by completing the Expression of Interest Form (EOI) form.
SBAT Employer EOI Form
Businesses and organisations can express interest in taking on a part time apprentice or trainee with Hastings Secondary College.
SBAT information for students
Students at Hastings Secondary College can undertake a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT). An SBAT can help students get a headstart in their careers by combining paid work, training and school.
SBAT students earn an industry recognised national qualification and unit credits toward their HSC.
Undertaking an SBAT in Year 10 or Year 11 and is an appropriate step towards vocational education and training (VET) or univserty post school pathways.
Learn to Work
For students, a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) is a head start to your career combining paid work, training and school. Not only will you get an industry recognised national qualification, but also unit credit towards your NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC).
You can start an SBAT in Year 10 or Year 11 and some training arrangements can contribute towards your Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). No matter if you are on a pathway to higher Vocational Education and Training or University post-school, there is an SBAT for you.
Where do I start?
- Research interesting occupation(s) using sites such as My Future or Smart and Skilled Job Guides to find out where they can take you in the future.
- Talk about your career ideas with your school Careers Adviser and parents/carers.
- Discuss with your Careers Adviser how an SBAT will fit into your HSC pattern of study. Ask about Industry Based Learning as a subject option.
- Find an employer.
- Your local SBAT Officer and/or school will help you on your way.
Things to consider
Students who take on a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship are motivated young people who don’t just want to plan their future career, they want to experience it now. It’s very important that you think about how you can manage your SBAT by considering:
- Is this a career I’m interested in?
- Can I handle school, work and training along with family and community commitments?
- Do I have a support network around me to help along the way? Teachers, careers adviser, transition advisor, parents/carers, friends, mentors etc.
- Can I make travel arrangements to get myself to work and training on time?
If you answered YES to the questions above, an SBAT may be a great option for you.
Check out the SkillsOne videos highlighting the School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships Program in NSW.
Hastings Secondary College students can register their interest for an SbAT by completing the Expression of Interest Form (EOI) form. To access the EOI form, simply scan the QR code or follow this link: SBAT Student EOI Form
SBAT information for employers
Future proof your business with School Based Apprentices and Trainees (SBATs)
Unlock potential for both employers and students with the School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT) program.
Benefits of employing an SBAT
When you hire an SBAT, you have the opportunity to shape your workforce's future while actively contributing to it. Students gain hands-on experience, industry-recognised qualifications, and can receive credits towards their HSC, while your business benefits from their fresh perspectives and eager contributions.
SBATs aren't just filling part-time roles; they represent the young talent supported to become skilled workers, driving your industry and business towards excellence. Partnering with our SBAT program grants you access to a pool of motivated learners ready to make a difference in your organisation.
Here's what partnering with the SBAT program offers:
- Direct access to motivated students.
- Promotion of SBAT vacancies directly to students who fit your business needs.
- Ongoing support from dedicated SBAT Engagement Officers.
- A commitment to ensuring your involvement's success.
Interested in employing an SBAT?
If you are interested to know more, or ready to take the next steps, complete our EOI form, and our dedicated team will reach out to discuss how SBATs can support you and your business. To access the EOI form, simply scan the QR code or follow this link: SBAT Employer EOI Form.
Want to know more?
Learn more about the Enhancing SBAT Engagement initiative, part of the Educational Pathways Program, and how it can support you.
Learn more about SBATs in NSW.
From personalised support to co-curricular opportunities - find out how we support learning both in and outside the classroom.