CURRICULUM & LEARNING
These subjects are the foundation of our students' education, integrated into all year levels of the curriculum starting from our Early Learning Centre into the Junior school and Senior School program.
Learning By Design
Learning should be transformational; it should be continuous and develop the whole person. Each student’s learning program at College is unique, and it is designed to give them agency and the opportunity to direct their own learning pathway. As a student moves through the school, the College curriculum is designed to enable each student to engage in foundational literacies, explore a broad range of subject interests and emerge from the VCE with the skills, knowledge and character that will equip them for the future.
The Middle Years (7-9) is underpinned by our school commitment to positive education and the importance of character development and wellbeing. Year 7 students are supported as they transition to College and engage in a program that lays the foundation of lifelong learning. In Years 8 and 9, students start to explore a breadth of curriculum offerings and are supported to select a broad course that will enable them to identify their strengths and areas of interest.
The Senior Years (10-12) offers students access to an academic curriculum program that allows depth and rigour in all areas of chosen study. Students emerge with strong foundations and a clear learning pathway. From Years 10-12, students are on a VCE pathway and create a program that allows them to achieve real depth in their learning.
Curriculum
Our school curriculum offers an integrated approach to learning and wellbeing for students from Early Learning to Year 12.
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Academic Extension
These innovative programmes are designed to empower students, foster curiosity, and cultivate a passion for lifelong learning.
Curriculum at a glance
Studying Commerce at The Hamilton and Alexandra College helps our students prepare for the real world of economics, business, and the law.
This is achieved through the study of various fields of Commerce spread out over each term during the year: Finance, Economics, Management and Entrepreneurship. Through these subjects, students learn about the value of money and how to invest and save to maximise long-term wealth; the principles of economics, and Australia’s economic system; and the foundations of business management, including business structures and ideas in preparation for VCE Business Management.
Commerce enables students to develop knowledge and skills that enhance their confidence and ability to participate effectively as socially responsible and ethical members, managers, and leaders of the business community, and become informed citizens, consumers and investors.
The study of Commerce leads to opportunities across all facets of business and economics and has relevance for our students who aspire to work in business and Agriculture. Students with an interest in studying or working in these areas after they complete school are well-catered for in Commerce.
All students in Year 7 complete one semester of Digital Technologies. They develop their knowledge of Digital Systems, Programming, and understanding of how Data and Information are used in their everyday lives.
In Years 8 and 9 students have the option to pursue learning about Drones, Robotics, Games and Web Page Design, The Internet of Things, and Making Movies through the various elective program offerings.
In Year 10 and VCE students undertake the study of Applied Computing which includes learning about the people, processors, equipment, and data needed to build and maintain Information Systems.
Additional extension programs are offered to students who show an interest in technology, providing them with the opportunity to complete and work collaboratively to create and problem solve real life problems.
The Hamilton and Alexandra College students study Drama in a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters expression and exploration of personal, cultural and social worlds through role and situation that engages, entertains and challenges.
Students are encouraged to create meaning as drama makers, performers and audiences as they enjoy and analyse their own and others’ stories and points of view. Like all Dramart forms, drama has the capacity to engage, inspire and enrich all students, excite the imagination and encourage students to reach their creative and expressive potential.
Our commitment to the dramatic arts is evident in the diverse co-curricular program that the College offers. Through House performances, and whole school productions students are encouraged to extend their performance skills.
Drama is offered as a rotation subject in Years 7 and then as an elective pathway subject in Years 8 and 9. The Year 10 drama program prepares students for
VCE drama which focuses on performance styles, ensembles and solo performances.
The study of English is an integral part of every student’s learning at The Hamilton and Alexandra College. In the English classroom we foster critical thinking, reflective practice and strive to develop active, independent learners.
We aim to provide our students with a broad range of experiences of language and literature, while ensuring they build the high-level literacy skills required to communicate effectively in the ever-changing and complex world around them. Students are exposed to a range of literary genres and forms from poetry and plays, modern and classic texts, film and nonfiction, to issues in the media; they also develop an appreciation of the importance of the spoken word.
Our teachers are passionate about their subject area, and we endeavour to instil a love of reading, writing, and speaking in all our students.
At The Hamilton and Alexandra College, we offer:
- English
- English as an Additional Language (EAL)
- Literature
- Foundation English
The Equine Program is designed to build a student’s confidence and skills in handling and working with horses to enhance their equine skills and knowledge. In addition, it examines the Equine Industry and looks at how the skills gained whilst working with horses can translate to future employment within the industry.
Students learn best practice in handling, riding, feeding, grooming, and caring for horses and understand how to complete a full body health and gait assessment on a horse.
The Year 8 and 9 course caters for both those who are passionate about horses, but without one to ride right through to students who have their own horse and would like to increase their knowledge, the subject includes a riding and handling component, along with a lesson from a qualified instructor. In Year 10, students can study a VET Certificate of Equine Studies through our partner provider.
In addition, students can become involved in our Horsemanship program that takes place at the Equestrian Centre after school. Here, qualified instructors give lessons in the student’s chosen discipline. Those without a horse can hire one from the College.
The Equine program incurs additional fees.
The Hamilton and Alexandra college has a modern purpose built kitchen facilities that allows our College students to study food technology in Years 7-9 and Certificate II in Hospitality in Years 10-11.
The curriculum focuses on providing students with knowledge and skills of food production, preparation, as well as understanding the importance of good food and nutrition to support a healthy lifestyle. Drawing on the rich natural resources in the Western District the curriculum follows a paddock to plate approach.
The Year 7 rotation program introduces students to basic skills necessary to gain confidence in food preparation and safe work practices.
The elective program offered in Year 8 and 9 includes Flavour 101 and Food for Life.
Students who enrol in the VET Certificate II in Hospitality gain skills and knowledge to work in industry.
The Geography curriculum presents a structured way of exploring, analysing and understanding the characteristics of the places that make up our world, using the concepts of place, space, environment, interconnection, sustainability, scale and change. It addresses scales from the personal to the global and time periods from a few years to thousands of years.
The Geography curriculum aims to ensure that students develop:
- a sense of wonder, curiosity and respect for places, people, cultures and environments throughout the world
- a deep geographical knowledge of their own locality, Australia, the Asia region and the world
- the ability to think geographically, using geographical concepts
- the capacity to be competent, critical and creative users of geographical methods and skills
- the capacity to be informed, responsible and active citizens who can contribute to the development of a world that is environmentally and economically sustainable, and socially just.
The Year 7 curriculum explores Water in the World, and Place and Liveability.
In Year 8 the curriculum areas covered are Landforms and Landscapes and Changing Nations.
In Year 9 covers students study All the world is a biome and Geographies of Interconnections.
In Year 10, students examine Environmental change and management and Geographies of wellbeing.
The two units studied for Year 11 VCE are Hazards and Disasters and Tourism.
For Year 12 VCE, students cover two units: Changing the land and Human population: trends and issues.
Fieldwork is an integral part of Geography, and students learn to collect data, record and analyse it, and report their findings.
Humanities offers students a new way of seeing and understanding the world. At The Hamilton and Alexandra College, we help our students prepare for their future by studying how important events and ideas have shaped our society.
Humanities offerings at The Hamilton and Alexandra College form part of the core curriculum through Years 7-10 and subjects include: History and Geography. These subjects allow students to access the knowledge and skills they need to make sense of the world in which they live and contribute to it in a meaningful and informed way.
Year 7 curriculum provides a study of history from the time of the earliest human communities to the end of the ancient period.
Year 8 curriculum provides a study of history from the end of the Medieval period.
Year 9 curriculum studies the history of the making of the modern world from 1750 to 1918.
Year 10 curriculum provides a study of the history of the modern world and Australia from 1918 to the present, with an emphasis on Australia in its global context.
At VCE Level students study Modern History Units 1 & 2 which covers two distinct areas of study: Change and conflict and the Changing World Oder.
In Units 3 & 4 there are two options offered:
History Revolutions which offers a close study of the French and Russian Revolutions.
Australia History which focuses on Creating a Nation (1834-2008) and War and Upheaval (1909-1992).
The Hamilton and Alexandra College has an evidence-based learning support and enhancement program. It is designed to target the needs of each student selected for the program, through one to one or small group support.
Learning Enhancement
Junior School
Students at the Junior School, who require extra assistance or extension, are supported by the Learning Enhancement team who work closely with classroom teachers, parents, and consulting health professionals. The school seeks to provide learning support as early as possible to maximise the students’ opportunities to master essential skills. Learning intervention programs are run in small groups or individually, using evidence-based materials that complement the Junior School curriculum. Literacy intervention includes the MultiLit suite of programs. Numeracy support is catered to the needs of the individual students, including extension programs of Maths Olympiad and Maths Games. Learning Support assistants are directed by teachers in the classroom to enable students to reach their potential.
Year 7-12
Students with diverse needs are initially catered for by differentiation within the classroom.
Some identified students are screened to determine their eligibility for extra support programs. Students attend, on average, two to three sessions in the 10-day cycle. This time is allocated for students to receive extra support in a range of subjects, which complements their classroom learning. There is a particular focus on improving skills and developing strategies tailored to specific areas of need. Support is given individually and in small groups and depends on the students’ needs when studying the mainstream or off-campus curriculum. Sometimes (based on specialist reports), extra time, a reader/clarifier, or rest breaks may be offered for assessments/examinations.
Language Skills - LSK
Literacy - Year 7&8 (two-year program)
The Language Skills program is designed to assist selected Year 7&8 students with meeting the literacy demands of the secondary school environment. The program aims to enhance the literacy skills of those students by improving their reading rate and accuracy as well as developing their vocabulary and comprehension. The structured lessons delivered through the resources of ‘Skills Application’ comprise of four main parts: word-attack skills, selection reading, individual reading checkouts (fluency) and workbook exercises. The students’ skills are monitored through their timed reading checkout table and the Skills Application Mastery tests, which are given periodically throughout the program, as well as other more broadly used assessments. The Spelling Through Morphographs program has also been included, as it teaches students that words are made up of units which have meaning, and that rules govern the spelling of these units.
Studying a language is a challenging and rewarding endeavour. Learning languages in addition to English extends students’ literacy repertoires and their capacity to communicate. It strengthens students’ understanding of the nature of language, culture, and the processes of communication.
At The Hamilton and Alexandra College, we believe that all students should have the opportunity to learn another language and develop knowledge about another people, culture and place. Language study is an important part of the Junior School program and is compulsory for students in Year 7-8.
In Senior School, students are able to continue studying their languages in VCE. Courses offered are French Second Language, Chinese Language, Culture and Society, Chinese First Language, Chinese Second Language and Chinese Second Language Advanced are offered upon request and by discretion of the College.
The Hamilton and Alexandra College is able to offer Language study with experienced Native speakers in both French and Mandarin Chinese.
The study of Mathematics at The Hamilton and Alexandra College fosters mathematical thinking through carefully sequenced skill development, active problem solving and connections to the real world.
Mathematics students are encouraged to become confident learners through challenging and engaging experiences. Students of mathematics work hard to develop a range of stratgies to help them to manage their own learning and develop a growth mindset.
Mathematics is about solving problems and students are encouarged to embrace a high level of challenge with the knowledge that they have teacher support.
Students are offered the opportunity to be challenged and extended in mathematics, whilst receiving additional support if required. All students are counselled into the most appropriate mathematics course.
In Year 7, Mathematics classes are designed to cater for all abilities with the aim of establishing a sound foundation of skills and study routines for success in secondary school mathematics.
In Year 8 and 9, students continue to develop their skills in the context of mathematics as a human endeavour that is interesting, useful and helps us to understand and progress in our modern world.
In Year 10, three pathways are offered with a focus on preparing for VCE. Students incorporate the use of technology and CAS calculators throughout the course.
The following subjects are offered in VCE.
- General Mathematics Units 1 - 4
- Mathematical Methods Units 1 – 4
- Specialist Mathematics Units 1 – 4
The Hamilton and Alexandra College has a strong reputation of music excellence in the region. Our music and performing arts program in the Junior school includes classroom music with a specialist music teacher at every year level. Our co-curricular program offers additional instrumental music tuition in a wide range of instruments and is complemented by our Year 2 String program.
All students are involved in our Performance Arts program and co-curricular music ensembles include Chamber singers and Pizzicato Strings. These programs prepare our students for a broad range of individual and collaborative musical opportunities in the Senior school.
The senior school music program begins with the Year 7 instrumental music program involving every student. This is followed by music electives in Years 8 to 10 and a pathway to VCE Music, for which the college is recognised as a leader in the region. Running parallel to the classroom music program, the co-curricular program provides instrumental tuition in all orchestral, band and contemporary instruments and voice, piano and pipe organ.
Co-curricular music ensembles include choirs, orchestras, bands and chamber groups available to every student. In addition to whole school services and assemblies, the College presents musical productions and the annual House Music competition is a cherished tradition. College ensembles and musicians regularly perform at College events and represent the College at community events and Eisteddfods.
The College has developed collaborative relationships with many music institutions and individual professional musicians who regularly visit the College extending our programs. Music at College is for all students and for those who wish to pursue it as a VCE pathway and beyond.
Physical Education
The Hamilton and Alexandra College is designed to build students’ physical literacy and encourage active participation in physical activity for lifelong health and wellbeing.
In year 7-9 students being to refine a range of fundamental motor skills and gain specialised knowledge, understanding, and skills in relation to movement competence and confidence in physical activity.
In Year 8 and 9, students are able elect to focus upon their passion of sport and administration. Two units, Sports Coaching and Sports Leadership provide students with an opportunity to explore in depth a sport of their choice. Students will build upon and apply their skills of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity within a practical environment.
In Year 10 the Physical Education Program extend students to deepen their understanding and refinement of skill in specialised physical education context. They are challenged to deepen their understanding of complex and specific movement skills and activities in athletics, swimming, hockey, rock climbing, recreation, personal fitness, volleyball, handball, tennis, basketball and cricket. They learn and apply their understanding pf physical literacy in new and challenging settings. They reflect on and explore personal and social skills as they participate in a range of physical activities, building upon their capacity to collaborate, communicate, and critically analyse their performance.
In Year 10, students can prepare for VCE with Sports Science, a course that provides the foundational skills for VCE Physical Education.
Health and Wellbeing
In Year 7 and 8 the Health and Wellbeing program is designed to teach students how to take positive action to enhance their own and others’ health, safety and wellbeing. They do this as they examine the nature of the relationships and other factors that influence people’s beliefs, attitudes, opportunities, decisions, behaviours and actions. Students demonstrate a range of help-seeking strategies that support them to access and evaluate health information and services.
In Year 9 and 10 the Health and Wellbeing program is designed to teach students how to take positive action to enhance their own and others’ health, safety and wellbeing. They do this as they examine the nature of the relationships and other factors that influence people’s beliefs, attitudes, opportunities, decisions, behaviours and actions.
Participation in sport is encouraged at The Hamilton and Alexandra College via our House and Interschool competitions (Glenelg District and ICCESS) and the extensive co-curricular program. Additional opportunities exist to participate in a range of sports during our House afternoons each term. Activities are open to students in Years 7 – 12 and provide an excellent opportunity for students to make new friends both within their year level and across the College.
Science at The Hamilton and Alexandra College encourages students to engage with all aspects of scientific study and research. The purpose-designed laboratories enable students to learn and experience Science in a hands-on way.
The Science program has been designed to ensure that students are enthusiastic to learn more about their environment and the processes that occur within it. Science ‘literacy’ is a key goal for students throughout the College. Science is part of the core curriculum of study through to Year 10.
Students are offered access to study:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Psychology
The Visual Arts program at The Hamilton and Alexandra College is taught by experienced senior educators with a passion and dedication to foster creativity.
Our students are encouraged to explore a breadth of artistic disciplines to nurture their knowledge and understanding of history, culture and their place in the world.
Establishing foundation skills in middle years underpins the success of senior years folios and prepares students for their future careers.
The visual arts provide students with the opportunity to explore ideas, manipulate materials and develop practical skills that enable them to articulate their creative thinking.
We are committed to providing an open, inclusive, and dynamic studio environment where students are encouraged to explore, experiment and cultivate their creativity.
In a modern and complex world, the ability to be innovative has never been more vital.
We welcome you to learn more about our Visual Arts program.
- Art
- 2D Art
- 3D Art
- Photography
- Fashion Design
- Product Design Advertising
- Environmental Design Advertising
- Visual Communication Design Units 1-4
- Art Making and Exhibiting Units 1-4
VETDSS
A range of VET courses are available to our senior students. The College works closely with a range of external providers who deliver range of courses that meet diverse student interests. There is an additional cost to study a VETDSS.
Virtual Schools Victoria
On occasion a student may wish to study a subject that the College does not offer. VSV gives students the opportunity to access this subject and complete their learning program.
Victoria School of Languages
VSL offers a range of languages. Students who have experience or interest in a LOTE that is not offered by the College can access VSL as part of their program.
Additional costs are incurred for courses provided by external providers
The Edge
The Edge is a three-year program designed to extend and challenge able students in years 7-9 to build the skills and knowledge required to become lifelong learners.
The Edge promotes bespoke programs for students that demonstrate high academic achievement and social and emotional intelligence.
Students are encouraged to extend their literacy and numeracy skills alongside the core curriculum, as well as develop the skills of collaboration, creative thinking, problem solving and communication. High challenges and failure will be experienced throughout the program.
It is an expectation that students participating in The Edge are also involved in all aspects of college life. Our Co-Curricular program includes a range of Summer and Winter sports, an Outdoor Education program, an extensive instrumental music/choral program, and a dramatic arts program. Students also have an opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh program. Entry into The Edge is via an application process.
Excel
The Excel program is designed to extend high achieving students in years 10-11 and provide them with the support and experiences to obtain academic excellence. Through masterclasses, leadership development and strong connections to College Alumni, students in the Excel program are given the opportunity to maintain their high academic achievements and be challenged to consider a range of future study and work opportunities. Entry into the Excel program is via a written application.
LEARNING ENHANCEMENT
Our structured programs give each student the support and encouragement they need to
achieve their full potential and learn within the mainstream.
Prep to Year 6
We provide special arrangements that focus on the growth of the individual and promote attitudes of self-worth and achievement.
Our experienced and professional Learning Support team works closely with classroom teachers, teacher aides and parents to support students needing consolidation. Reading Recovery and MultiLit are the cornerstones of our withdrawal programs.
Years 7 to 12
We prioritise individual student support through rostered ‘Extra Studies’ sessions, small group language skills programs, and test/examination support. Our experienced and professional Learning Support team collaborates closely with classroom teachers, teacher aides and parents to support students with additional needs.
Recommendations from specialists are incorporated into a student’s learning support plan and the progress of individual students is monitored closely to ensure their needs are being met.
