Learning at JHS

Students are welcomed into the Jerrabomberra High School community, building confidence and connection through supportive transition programs. They begin to see high school as a place where curiosity, belonging, and future possibilities take shape.

Students embark on a journey of exploration, engaging with a broad range of subjects, experiences, and friendships. They begin to uncover their passions, interests, and individual learning strengths, developing the confidence to see themselves as capable learners. At JHS we encourage curiosity and creativity through approaches that look a little different – learning is hands-on, connected, and designed to spark discovery both in and beyond the classroom.

Students begin to figure out who they are — uncovering their strengths, values, and emerging sense of identity. They explore how their passions and skills connect with the wider world of work and community, while also learning the importance of empathy, responsibility, and resilience. This stage helps them see that understanding themselves is the first step to shaping the contribution they will make locally and globally.

Students look outward to future possibilities, asking themselves who they want to be. Through curiosity and creativity, they explore pathways ahead and, through elective choices, begin to connect their passions and strengths with emerging opportunities. At the same time, they develop essential skills and attributes — adaptability, problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience — preparing them for success in a 21st century, global workforce and to contribute meaningfully in an interconnected world.

Students refine their strengths and interests into clear pathways, asking themselves what they want to be. They learn to set goals, make informed choices, and build the cognitive and personal skills that will support successful transitions into Stage 6 and life beyond school. By connecting their learning with global challenges and opportunities, they begin to see how what they want to be can make a difference both locally and internationally.

Students take greater ownership of their learning, building the agency to shape and take control of their future. They extend learning beyond the classroom, engaging with authentic audiences, industries, and community partnerships. By deepening their expertise and linking study with real-world applications, they actively explore pathways toward university, vocational training, and employment. Through these experiences, they strengthen their capacity to navigate a global landscape where collaboration, innovation, and cultural awareness are vital.

Students rise to the challenge of their HSC year, developing confidence, focus, and resilience. They refine the skills to succeed academically while preparing for life beyond school with a clear sense of direction and purpose. As they stand on the threshold of new horizons, they carry with them the knowledge, values, and competencies needed to thrive in further education, work, and global citizenship.

Students carry forward the knowledge, skills, and values of their Jerra education into the next stage of life. Whether through employment, further study, or service, they are equipped to navigate their journey with adaptability, creativity, and purpose. Confident in their ability to contribute to both their local community and the wider world, they embody the vision of Jerrabomberra High School — forging pathways to positively impact the future.

Students begin high school through our STREAMS model — Quest, Discover, Inspire, and Create — with Navigate building strong core skills. Stage 4 is all about curiosity, collaboration, and building confidence as learners.

Learn more about Stage 4 (Years 7–8) Learning

In Stage 5, students deepen their core learning and choose two electives each semester. History and Geography are studied as one-semester electives, while mini-electives in core subjects add variety and challenge.

Learn more about Stage 5 (Years 9–10) Learning

Stage 6 offers choice, independence, and challenge. Students personalise their program by selecting from a wide range of HSC and VET courses, with English compulsory and electives across sciences, humanities, arts, TAS, PDHPE, and vocational pathways. Each pathway is designed to align with student strengths, interests, and future goals.

Learn more about Stage 6 (Years 11–12) Learning

Special Religious Education (SRE) and Special Education in Ethics (SEE)

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

At Jerrabomberra High School in 2026, SRE will be offered once per term for students in Years 7–10 whose parents or carers choose to opt in. Sessions (75 minutes) will be delivered by the Combined Christian Churches using the Think Faith curriculum.

The Think Faith curriculum is based on the Good News about Jesus Christ and focuses on learning the key elements of Christian life and culture. Christian SRE encourages students to engage in conversations as they question life, explore values, and discover faith.

Students who do not participate in SRE will take part in supervised individual study, in line with Department of Education policy.

Learn more about the Think Faith curriculum or visit the NSW Department of Education Religion and Ethics page, or contact us for more information.

Some students show advanced abilities in creativity, leadership, problem-solving, academics, or sport. At Jerrabomberra High School, we identify high potential and gifted students early and provide opportunities to extend their strengths.

This may include:

• enrichment programs within the classroom
• extension activities and projects
• leadership and creative opportunities
• tailored pathways to keep students challenged and engaged

We support learning growth every day in the classroom. Teachers provide clear feedback, set individual learning goals with students, and adjust teaching to meet different needs. Support may include:

• targeted literacy and numeracy programs
• small-group or one-on-one support
• personalised learning plans co-designed with families
• regular check-ins to monitor progress

Wellbeing is also woven into daily learning, so students feel safe, supported, and ready to succeed.

Assessment and reporting provide a formal structure for monitoring progress and sharing achievement with families. Students complete a variety of tasks across each subject to demonstrate their learning.

Families receive:

• written academic reports
• updates on student progress through the year
• opportunities to discuss learning at parent–teacher interviews

These processes ensure progress is transparent, achievements are celebrated, and next steps are clear.

Read more about Assessment and Reporting

In addition to the NSW curriculum, we offer Big Picture Education — a personalised pathway for students who thrive through project-based and interest-driven learning.

Learn more about Big Picture Education

The Thrive Academy celebrates diversity and provides enriched learning opportunities for students with additional needs. Through specialised instruction, personalised support, and inclusive practices, Thrive empowers students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally in a supportive environment.

Thrive focuses on recognising each student’s strengths and building confidence, resilience, and belonging in both the classroom and wider school community. Partnerships with families, staff, and the community strengthen opportunities for every learner.

Learn more about Thrive