Learning
At our school, we teach the NSW curriculum and offer many different subjects to support each student’s learning. We know that development of skills in literacy and numeracy are the building blocks for learning and for everyday life. Our teachers use effective teaching strategies to help students achieve their goals.
Why choose us for your child’s learning?
Strong foundations
We focus on the skills your child needs to succeed in school and beyond. This helps them feel confident and prepared for the future.
High-quality education
We offer a range of subjects to match what students enjoy and want to learn about. Our skilled teachers support every student to find what they love, do their best and succeed.
Inclusive and personalised learning
Our teachers adjust how they teach to suit your child’s needs, interests and learning pace. We make sure every student feels confident and supported.
Extension opportunities
Some students are ready for more challenges. We offer open-ended tasks, enrichment programs and support. We help all students to reach their full potential.
What students learn
Students learn a wide range of subjects in the NSW curriculum. They build skills, think creatively and prepare for life beyond school.
English is a compulsory subject for all students from Year 7 to Year 12. At Coonabarabran High School, students learn how language works by exploring a wide range of spoken, written, visual, and digital texts. As they progress, students build the skills needed to communicate clearly, think critically, and understand different perspectives.
Our English program encourages a love of reading, creativity, and confident self-expression. Students are supported to experiment with ideas, work with others, and develop as independent learners.
In Years 11 and 12, English is mandatory, and students at Coonabarabran High School can choose from several pathways based on their interests and goals:
- English Standard
- English Advanced
- English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
- English Extension 1
These courses help students challenge themselves, grow their skills, and prepare for future study and work.
Mathematics is a compulsory subject for all students from Year 7 to Year 10. At Coonabarabran High School, students learn how to think mathematically by building skills in fluency, problem-solving, reasoning, and communication. These skills help students understand patterns, make informed decisions, and apply mathematical ideas in real-life situations.
Across Years 7–10, students explore key areas of mathematics, including number and algebra, measurement and geometry, and statistics and probability. As they move through the stages of learning, students take on work that matches their level of understanding and supports steady growth.
In Years 11 and 12, mathematics becomes optional. Students at Coonabarabran High School can select a course that aligns with their interests, abilities, and future pathways. Senior courses include:
- Mathematics Standard 1
- Mathematics Standard 2
- Mathematics Advanced
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Mathematics Extension 2
These courses offer different levels of challenge and prepare students for a variety of post-school options, including trades, university, and the workforce.
Science is a compulsory subject for all students from Year 7 to Year 10. At Coonabarabran High School, students learn how to explore the world around them by asking questions, investigating ideas, and using evidence to draw conclusions. Science lessons build skills in observation, experimentation, and problem-solving, helping students understand how scientific knowledge applies to everyday life.
Across Years 7–10, students develop strong scientific thinking skills and learn how to work scientifically as they study living systems, chemical processes, energy, Earth sciences, and the universe.
In Years 11 and 12, students can choose from a range of specialised science courses that match their interests and future goals. Senior options at Coonabarabran High School include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Earth and Environmental Science
These courses allow students to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts, prepare for further study, and explore pathways in science-related fields.
Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) includes the compulsory subjects of History and Geography from Kindergarten to Year 10. At Coonabarabran High School, students learn about people, cultures, environments, and how societies change over time. They also develop an understanding of global issues and the ways individuals can influence the world around them.
HSIE subjects help students build important skills such as researching information, analysing evidence, asking meaningful questions, and communicating ideas effectively.
In Years 9 and 10, students at Coonabarabran High School can also choose HSIE electives to explore their interests further. These include:
- Commerce – exploring the world of business, money, law, and consumer decision-making
- Archaeology and World Issues – investigating ancient cultures, global challenges, and how the past shapes the modern world
- Aboriginal Studies - explores Aboriginal histories, cultures, and perspectives. Students learn about identity, community, and connection to Country, while building skills in research, discussion, and critical thinking
These electives allow students to engage deeply with topics they are passionate about and strengthen their understanding of society.
In Years 11 and 12, students can select from a wide range of HSIE courses:
- Ancient History
- Business Studies
- History Extension
- Legal Studies
- Modern History
- Society and Culture
These subjects support students to think critically, understand complex issues, and prepare for future study and employment.
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) is a compulsory subject from Kindergarten to Year 10. At Coonabarabran High School, students learn about health, safety, wellbeing, and the skills needed to make positive choices throughout their lives. PDHPE also gives students regular opportunities to be active, build fitness, and develop confidence in movement.
Throughout Years 7–10, students explore topics such as healthy relationships, decision-making, nutrition, mental health, risk awareness, and personal development. They also take part in a variety of physical activities that promote teamwork, coordination, and enjoyment of sport.
In Years 9 and 10, students can choose from additional PDHPE electives that allow them to explore specialised areas of interest:
- Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) – focusing on movement skills, sports science, fitness, and the role of physical activity in daily life
- Child Studies – examining child development, health, learning, and the factors that influence the wellbeing of young children
In Years 11 and 12, students at Coonabarabran High School can study a range of PDHPE-related courses, including:
- Health and Movement Science
- Community and Family Studies
- Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies
Sport at Coonabarabran High School
Sport plays a key role in school life and contributes to students’ physical, social, and emotional development. Coonabarabran High School offers a variety of sporting opportunities, from weekly participation to zone, regional, and state-level representation. Through sport, students learn teamwork, resilience, and leadership while developing a healthy and active lifestyle.
Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) is a compulsory subject for students in Years 7 and 8. At Coonabarabran High School, TAS gives students hands-on opportunities to design, create, and problem-solve using a variety of tools, materials, and technologies. Through practical and theory lessons, students learn how ideas are developed and turned into real solutions.
The TAS learning pathway begins in the early years of schooling and continues through to Year 12, with students building more advanced design and production skills as they progress. From Year 9 onwards, students can specialise by choosing TAS electives that match their interests and future goals.
Years 9–10 TAS subjects offered at Coonabarabran High School:
- Agricultural Technology
- Food Technology
- Industrial Technology Timber
- Industrial Technology Metal
Year 11-12 TAS HSC subjects offered at Coonabarabran High School:
- Agriculture
- Engineering Studies
- Food Technology
- Industrial Technology Timber
- Industrial Technology Metal
Our TAS faculty may also offer VET courses in years 11-12 reflecting student interest.
These courses help students develop creativity, technical skills, and confidence in using technology and design processes. TAS subjects also open pathways into trades, engineering, agriculture, hospitality, digital technologies, and many other future careers.
The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) faculty encourages students to explore ideas, develop practical skills, and express themselves through a range of art forms. Through making, performing, and responding, students learn how creativity enriches their lives and strengthens their ability to communicate.
Students at Coonabarabran High School study 100 hours of Music and 100 hours of Visual Arts across Years 7–10, building core skills and confidence in artistic expression.
In Years 9 and 10, students can choose CAPA electives that allow them to specialise in areas they enjoy:
- Drama (Years 9–10): A practical course that builds confidence and communication through acting and performance.
- Music (Years 9–10): Students develop skills in performing and composing across a range of musical styles.
- Visual Arts (Years 9–10): A creative course focused on making artworks and exploring different techniques and ideas.
In Years 11 and 12, students can continue their artistic study through:
- Visual Arts
- Music
Through CAPA, students gain confidence, creativity, and strong problem-solving skills while learning to appreciate the impact of the arts in their lives and communities.
Languages is a key learning area in New South Wales. At Coonabarabran High School, students study Gamilaraay in Year 7, giving them the opportunity to learn one of the traditional languages of our region and deepen their understanding of local culture.
Learning a language helps students build communication skills, understand how languages work, and explore the strong links between language, culture, and identity. Through this learning, students reflect on how people interact and gain a broader appreciation of cultural diversity in Australia and beyond.
In NSW, students must study a language for 100 hours in one continuous year between Year 7 and Year 10. At Coonabarabran High School, this requirement is met through the Year 7 Gamilaraay program.
Language learning supports respect, cultural awareness, and a deeper connection to the community and Country on which our school stands.
At our school, we give the right support to help gifted learners to grow and do their best.
We notice these students early. They may learn quickly or show strong skills in creativity, leadership, problem solving or sport. We help them stay challenged with lessons and activities that match their strengths.
Learn more about how we support high potential and gifted learners.
Our learning approach
Our school uses explicit teaching. This means we clearly tell students what they are learning, why it is important and how to do it step by step. Explicit teaching helps students understand new ideas by breaking them into smaller parts.
Learning at our school is student-centred, inclusive and practical. We are committed to equity and access. We support all learning styles and needs. Our teachers use proven teaching strategies. They take part in ongoing professional development to stay up to date with best teaching practice.
Our learning approach includes:
- real-world learning: hands-on tasks, group work and exploring new ideas
- technology: to help students learn and build digital skills
- flexible teaching: the right support for each student, with a focus on wellbeing
- community connections: through excursions and local programs.
Helping students progress
We support every student’s academic progress by:
- checking their progress and giving clear and timely feedback
- setting learning goals with each student
- giving extra help with personalised plans and support from specialist staff
- reporting on each student’s learning progress so parents and carers know how their child is doing
- providing targeted literacy and numeracy support in small groups
- making wellbeing part of everyday learning
- working with families to support learning at home and school
- helping students through transitions, like starting school or moving to a new stage of learning.
Learn more about additional learning support at our school.
Want to know more about our subjects?
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Student opportunities and activities
Discover clubs, sports and other activities your child can enjoy at school.
Our principal and staff
Get to know our principal and staff, who work together to create a positive school culture.