ACADEMIC CURRICULUM

Academic Life

The school academic year consists of four terms. Mid-year entry will be considered if a vacancy exists. Please note: Year 10 is the last entry year group.St Catherine’s teaching is intentionally tailored to girls – this environment encourages and stimulates thought-provoking discussions. Research has proven that girls in single-sex schools achieve higher academic outcomes, and have higher self-belief, self-esteem and confidence. Following your daughter’s commencement, the Years 7–12 Heads of Year are the students' and parents' first point of contact at the school. The year mentor is responsible for the holistic development of each girl. They know all students, their strengths and areas for development, well. Our Heads of Year also work closely with boarding staff to ensure continuity of care for each girl. All senior school students, day girls and boarders can use the research centre (library) from 7.30am until the start of school at 8.20am, and at recess and lunch. Our prep centre is a wonderful resource where students have access to teaching staff, who provide homework support and mentorship. The prep centre runs each day from 3.30pm – 5.30pm and Years 11 and 12 students may remain in the prep centre until 9.00pm. Our boarders attend prep centre from 7pm to 9pm each day. 

Academic Curriculum

St Catherine’s offers a comprehensive range of subjects from Years 7–10. From Year 7, students study: English, Mathematics, Science, History, PDHPE, French or Chinese, Latin, Music, Technology, Visual Arts and Biblical Studies. From Year 8, your daughter will choose two electives. From Year 10, your daughter will add one more elective.

St Catherine’s offers one of the broadest academic curriculums, with 40 HSC courses offered at the school. Click here for our 2024 Senior School Curriculum.

Planning for the Future

Choosing the right electives and career guidance is crucial when planning the future opportunities available to your daughter. Our tertiary advisor works closely with students to provide advice and support. Alumni speakers and other workplace professionals regularly visit the school and share their experiences and advice. Furthermore, universities conduct open days and online events which the girls are encouraged to attend. The majority of our students attend university after graduating from St Catherine's, with many choosing to study overseas in America, Europe and the UK.

Academic Results

St Catherine’s offers the Higher School Certificate (HSC). HSC examinations are completed in the final year of senior school. The marks determine the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR), which enables students to enter a university in Australia or overseas. The HSC/ATAR is recognised internationally. The majority of  St Catherine’s students study at  The University of Sydney, The University of NSW, The University of Technology Sydney or The Australian National University. St Catherine’s is an academically non-selective school, and given this, student’s results are consistently outstanding.  

Click here to read about our academic achievements in our 2024 Achievement Report.