Secondary School Curriculum

The secondary curriculum offered at AIS is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, recognised worldwide for its rigour while developing skills that allow students to thrive beyond their school years. Students graduate from the Australian International School and enrol at preferred universities in over 15 countries with the globally recognised International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) or the Australian High School Certificate (HSC). To prepare for the challenges of Years 11 and 12, students pursue subjects across the Cambridge IGCSE and Australian Curriculums to study in Years 9 and 10. 

In Years 6 to 8, students follow the Australian Curriculum, which blends rigour with diverse subjects in the arts, sciences, humanities, foreign languages, math, language and literacy and a daily focus on social-emotional development.   During these transformative years, students develop essential 21st-century skills such as Critical Thinking, Communication, Research and Self-management through a conceptualised learning approach. Taught and immersed in a community of over 50 different nationalities, students truly embrace being global citizens, a vital component of a top international IB World School.

The Australian International School provide graduates with two globally recognised graduation credentials – the Australian NSW Higher School Certificate  (HSC) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). Both globally recognised curricula challenge students through rigorous study of over 25 subject options to cater to students’ passions and provide a passport to preferred universities globally. 

Our team of supportive experts guide students and parents through subject selections, university destination options and applications. Most importantly our faculty and academic well-being experts support students in developing life skills through dedicated lessons focusing on a range of topics such as cultivating self-awareness and a strong sense of autonomy, learning how to actively contribute to their communities, and addressing global challenges to be ready for life after graduation.

Senior Studies Handbook

International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB)

Higher School Certificate (HSC)

The curriculum in Years 9 and 10 provides students with a holistic education that balances academic growth and flexibility to find their passion with an average of 25-course options. We are proud to offer the internationally regarded Cambridge IGCSE in combination with the Australian Curriculum subject options, allowing flexibility for students who are newer to English study or transferring schools to support transition into either of our graduation options.  Students who join us in Year 10 will enter our Senior Preparation Program (SPP) which will help to prepare them for their Senior Studies in Years 11 and 12. Our team of academic experts will guide you through senior pathways and subject selection.

2024 Year 9-10 Handbook 

Year 10 Senior Preparation Program Handbook

International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE)

Delivering academic rigour students in Years 6-8 will follow the Australian Curriculum which provides clear academic standards to set students on a path for graduation while continuing to focus on the IB Approaches to Learning. The mix of the arts, sciences, humanities, foreign languages, math, language and literacy and a daily focus on social-emotional development keeps student development broad as they begin to learn and understand their unique talents while ensuring a foundation in key areas.  As student’s interests deepen, our over 300 Co-Cuccircular Activities (CCAs) such as football, swimming, Theatre, and Senior Math Club allow students to develop their talents.