OUR CURRICULUM
Norwood International High School is proud to offer one of the most comprehensive choices of curriculum of any school in South Australia. Students in Years 7 to 10 study the International Baccalaureate: Middle Years Program with the subject content informed by the Australian Curriculum. In Years 11 & 12 students study the South Australian Certificate of Education and have access to over 125 Stage 1 and Stage 2 subjects. Year 11 & 12 students can also apply to undertake the International Baccalaureate: Diploma Program.
The South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is the local senior secondary qualification designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge and capabilities to thrive as an engaged global citizen. Students are awarded the SACE if they successfully complete a two-stage course of study that meet the flexible requirements.
The SACE is a two-stage program offering a range of subjects. As students study the SACE, they will gain valuable literacy and numeracy skills in each of the disciplines offered, be challenged to think critically and creatively, problem solve, develop entrepreneurial skills and build upon their intercultural and ethical understanding.
Most students study Stage 1 in Year 11 and Stage 2 in Year 12, and can support their SACE completion by earning credits for individual and/or community activities e.g. the Duke of Edinburgh, or through recognition of vocational education and training (VET) courses.
Students will need to complete 200 credits of study to complete the SACE. Each subject is worth either 10 or 20 credits, depending on the length of the subject. Typically, subjects are awarded 10 credits for one semester and 20 credits for a full year.
Some of the 200 credits required to complete the SACE are awarded through the successful study (C grade or higher at Stage 1 and C- or higher at Stage 2) of the compulsory requirements. They are:
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Stage 1 Personal Learning Plan (10 credits)
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Numeracy requirement – a mathematics subject in Stage 1 or Stage 2 (10 credits)
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Literacy requirement – an English subject in Stage 1 or Stage 2 (20 credits)
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Stage 2 Research Project (10 credits)
These compulsory requirements make up 50 credits of the 200 needed to complete the SACE. As part of the remaining 150 credits, a minimum of 60 credits must be awarded at a Stage 2 level.
How does this work at Norwood International High School?
Typically, students complete their SACE according to the following pattern:
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Year 10 – 10 credits from Personal Learning Plan – More details can be found at the PLP Digital Hub.
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Year 11 – 100 credits from the study of 5 subjects per semester.
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Year 12 – 90 credits from the study of 4 subjects and Research Project. More information about the research project for families can be found by clicking here.
What is an ATAR?
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a rank given to secondary school students ranging from 0 to 99.95.
It is a numerical ranking (not a score) that shows how a student performed in their studies compared to other students completing an Australian Year 12 program.
Entry into courses at tertiary institutions can be quite competitive, which is cause for a fair and transparent process and tool for ranking applicants. As such, the ATAR is used to compare the results of students nationally for tertiary institutions to determine who will be offered entry into their courses.
In South Australia, the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC) calculates the ATAR. Click Here to find out more information about how the ATAR is calculated.
IB: Diploma Programme
Vocational Education Training (VET)
The IB: Middle Years Program (IBMYP) aims to develop active learners and internationally minded young people who can empathise with others and pursue lives of purpose and meaning. The programme empowers students to inquire into a wide range of issues and ideas of significance locally, nationally and globally. The result is young people who are creative, critical and reflective thinkers.
IB: Middle Years Programme
South Australian Certificate of Education
The Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous pre-university course of study designed for students in the 16 to 19 age range. It is a broad-based two-year course that aims to encourage students to be knowledgeable and inquiring, but also caring and compassionate. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging students to develop intercultural understanding, open-mindedness, and the attitudes necessary for them to respect and evaluate a range of points of view.
The course is presented as six academic areas enclosing a central core. Students study two modern languages (or a modern language and a classical language), a humanities or social science subject, an experimental science, mathematics and one of the creative arts. Instead of an arts subject, students can choose two subjects from another area. It is this comprehensive range of subjects that makes the Diploma Programme a demanding course of study designed to prepare students effectively for university entrance. In each of the academic areas students have flexibility in making their choices, which means they can choose subjects that particularly interest them and that they may wish to study further at university.
Normally, three subjects (and not more than four) are taken at higher level (HL), and the others are taken at standard level (SL). The IB recommends 240 teaching hours for HL subjects and 150 hours for SL. Subjects at HL are studied in greater depth and breadth than at SL. In addition, three core elements—the extended essay, theory of knowledge and creativity, activity, service—are compulsory and central to the philosophy of the programme.
Through the DP, schools are able to develop students who:
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have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge
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flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically
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study at least two languages
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excel in traditional academic subjects
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explore the nature of knowledge through the programme’s unique theory of knowledge course.
What is VET?
VET stands for Vocational Education and Training. VET is nationally recognised industry training within the Australian Qualifications Framework. VET enables students to acquire skills, knowledge and training for work through a nationally recognised industry-developed training package or accredited course. VET is assessed and certified by Registered Training Organisations (RTO).
Undertaking VET may benefit students' exploration of a variety of career pathways. It is not just reserved for a pathway within the trades, such as plumbing, hairdressing, or construction. Students can complete VET qualifications in a diverse range of industries.
VET courses run either during school or after school. Some courses also require the completion of Structured Work Placement.
Why study VET in SACE?
VET can be an excellent option for many students. It usually includes practical, hands-on learning, and can lead to further training pathways and employment opportunities in many industry areas. Undertaking VET as part of the SACE gives students a head start on a qualification, apprenticeship or traineeship. It is a great way to fast-track progress towards a rewarding career, while also developing independence, time-management and other employability skills and capabilities.
Students undertaking VET courses can:
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Personalise their learning pathways.
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Develop industry specific skills, often including on-the-job structured workplace learning.
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Get a head start on a career and be more 'apprenticeship ready'.
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Work to attain a nationally accredited certificate against the Australian Qualification Training Framework.
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Achieve their SACE through diverse learning experiences.
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Use their VET to contribute to an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) or TAFE SA entry, in the case of full completion of most Certificate III and higher-level courses.
What VET courses are available?
Norwood International High School is committed to supporting interested students to identify an appropriate VET pathway suited to their strengths and interests.
Students can be supported to apply for VET courses that are included in a Flexible Industry Pathway, are listed as Stackable VET or within a school-based contract of training. The school works with a list of preferred providers who will help students make a successful and meaningful post-school transition to further study, training or employment.
You can find a list of courses on offer here.
Please be aware that the list of courses is regularly changing and is periodically updated.
For more information or to apply, please contact vanessa.guerin483@schools.sa.edu.au
WELLBEING AT NIHS
Wellbeing is paramount to students’ success in school and in life in general. At Norwood International High School we aim to support students to thrive academically, physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. This is achieved through a holistic and multi-layered approach.
Our Approach
Our approach to supporting and strengthening student wellbeing at NIHS involves a range of approaches and strategies, working in partnership with students, staff, families and the community.
Our work involves:
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fostering strong connections with students and their peers, school and staff.
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proactive approaches through educational programs increasing awareness and the holistic development of students
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proactive intervention through delivering programs and strategies which are responsive to data and trends
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creating a network of support through working in partnership with support services, families and external services.
Through this work we aim to develop students’:
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Resilience: Developing students’ ability to bounce-back and overcome challenges and adversity.
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Connectedness: Increasing student connection to school and others around them, including peers, family and the community.
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Emotionally Literacy: Increasing student knowledge and understanding of emotions and equipping them with the tools to identify and manage them.
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Identity: Supporting students’ to have a strong connection and understanding of themselves, their culture and decision-making and be able to express this.
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Relationships Strengthening student ability to form positive relationships with others.
This is achieved through:
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A dedicated Student Wellbeing Team consisting of three Student Wellbeing Leaders, led by the Director of Middle School
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A Wellbeing education delivered through the My Wellbeing Strand of the Connect program.
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Proactive programs delivered to support the social and emotional development of students.
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Providing resources for families to support student wellbeing. This includes School TV, a platform accessible via our website which includes a range of resources produced by leading psychologists to support families in the wellbeing of their child: https://nmhs.sa.schooltv.me/
CONNECT PROGRAM
The Connect program is delivered via the Connect website and Daymap. Students have four 10 minute sessions of Connect each week called Morning Connect. Each of these Morning Connect sessions have a different focus:
MEMO
MONDAYS
TAKE CARE
TUESDAYS
HOUSE
THURSDAYS
FITNESS
FRIDAYS
Students also participate in two 55 minute sessions called Extended Connect where the Connect Program is delivered. The program involves students engaging in discussions, activities and student choice sessions.
Learning is divided into the following four strands:
MY
LEARNING
MY
COMMUNITY
MY
WELLBEING
MY
FUTURE
Connect is the Norwood International High School student development program. The program provides students with a range of opportunities and experiences to develop as adolescents, preparing them to be engaged global citizens. Students undertake the program in each year of their education at NIHS. The program provides support for students throughout their schooling. This support is provided by the Connect Teacher, who is the student’s go-to person who they see during their Connect Class. They support and monitor student learning and wellbeing, and deliver the Connect Program.
Program Delivery
YOUR JOURNEY
Middle Schooling
Our Middle Schooling philosophy provides a supportive and dynamic environment that promotes a culture of engagement, self-directed learning and achievement. Years 7-9 students undertake a broad program of study and experience a variety of subjects within the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB:MYP).
It provides a framework of learning and encourages students to become “inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect” (International Baccalaureate Organisation Mission Statement). Students study a Language to support them in understanding their own language and culture and those of others.
In the final year of the program, all students complete a personal project. This engaging curriculum ensures excellence in academic, social and cultural outcomes and encourages students to become creative, critical and reflective thinkers.
Senior Schooling
Norwood International High School has a success-oriented culture offering diverse learning programs and pathways to develop expert learners and provide for individual interests.
The Senior School builds on the independent learning skills and learning experiences of the Middle School and effectively prepares students to graduate as engaged global citizens ready to meet the challenges of a changing world.
We are passionate about providing a personalized, engaging, futures-focused curriculum that develops our students academically, socially and emotionally to become active, life-long learners. As such, our senior students have access to relevant, contemporary and high-quality senior secondary education. As a pathway to school completion, senior students have the choice to undertake the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP). Our senior schooling philosophy and structures are student-centred and cater for the differences in adolescent interest and development. We effectively empower, challenge and support our students to develop their unique qualities and talents.
The Senior School affords several specialist programs with purpose-built facilities and teaching expertise. Staff have a wealth of knowledge and experience and understand the challenges and complexities of senior schooling. They work collaboratively with parents, students and providers to ensure the best possible outcomes for all students. There exists a proud and long-standing tradition of academic and industry excellence with graduates achieving outstanding subject and VET results.
CO-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
Our Child has really excelled this year, with the rowing program being an important part of this. The sense of community that is created, as well as working with like-minded people has really helped his sense of belonging and want to do the best he can. We really appreciate all that you do and the fabulous opportunity you are providing to students.
- Year 7 Parent
Over the last 5 years I have been able to take my learning experiences beyond the classroom. Actively creating closer bonds, friendships, and experiences with new people. The special interest rowing program allows for a steep improvement in physical fitness and health, driven by friendly competition and a mindset for personal growth. Rowing is a journey, and we hope that you will come and be apart the experience at Norwood International High School.
- Seb Cole, 2022 Captain of Boats
Norwood International Rowing Club is made up of over 100 students who take part in rowing trainings, regattas, and camps throughout the school year. The NIHS Rowing Club brings together a large community of current students, staff, parents, and supporters along with old scholars and professional coaches. Norwood International Rowing Club competes in regattas across South Australia throughout term 4 and 1 of each season. Over Term 2 and 3 students can participate in a range of winter, off season/preseason training to maintain and build their fitness and rowing ability. As a member of the Rowing Club, you will experience rowing across the school boathouses at the Torrens River and West Lakes, while training camps take place across South Australias including the Port River, Murray Bridge, Walkers Flat, Mannum and Renmark. Students will have access to the High-Performance Rowing Center at set training times for strength and conditioning training. Senior Rowers have access to offsite gym facilities and personal trainers through our partnership with Train 2 Max. Rowers may also have the opportunity to take part in interstate regattas including Head of the Yarra, Melbourne Head and the Australian Rowing Championships. In 2023 we hope to send crews overseas to take part in the ANZAC Rowing Regatta in Malta.
Benefits of Rowing
As students develop and evolve within the Norwood International Rowing Club they actively engage and improve their ability to be organised, work within a team environment, become a leader and be part of a likeminded community. It provides an environment to successful develop their aptitude for rowing in a social or high-performance pathway. Participation in the Rowing Club allows for students to develop an understanding of areas including technology in sport, training principles, skill acquisition, group dynamics, nutrition, and performance analysis.
Norwood International Rowing Club
Pedal Prix is an exciting activity for students to ride pedal powered vehicles during Terms 2 and 3. Students join a team and compete in the UniSA HPV Super Series held on closed tracks. Norwood International Pedal Prix Racing aims to provide an inclusive program with teams for students of all year levels, abilities, and aspirations. This year we will look to field up to 6 teams in various races, with the addition of a community team at Adelaide Round 3.
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Rampage – Junior Mixed (male and female) (year 7/8/9)
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Enigma – Junior Female ( Year 7/8/9)
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Protégé – Junior Male (year 7/8/9)
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Spurls Girls – Senior Female (Year 10/11/12)
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XP8 – Senior Boys (Year 10/11/12)
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Focus – Senior Boys (Elite) ( Year 10/11/12)
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Astro – Community Open
Students taking part in season 2022 will need to commit to fortnightly training sessions at Victoria Park or Hanson Reserve velodrome and to various races depending upon their team’s requirements. We are looking for students to consistently strive to improve themselves on and off the racetrack, by building fitness, gaining knowledge of the trikes, and taking on leadership roles within the program.
Depending on the program capacity students may be required complete tryouts to secure their position in the program.
Pedal Prix
Benefits of Pedal Prix
The Pedal Prix program at Norwood International High School provides a co-curricular experience unfound in any other area of the school. It allows students to perform and develop individually while remaining a part of team and a strong community environment. Students will learn how to control their body and mind as they not only power the Pedal Prix Vehicle around the racetrack, but also steer and control it. They must learn race craft, cornering, spatial awareness and how to take responsibility for their actions. Student will learn to understand the construction and evolution of pedal prix (human powered vehicles) over the last 40 years, and how South Australia has been a key element in seeing this sport expand. We partner with leading trike builder and engineering firm “Trump Trikes” to take students inside the production process as they learn the many components and design strategies that go into a race winning trike. Students will learn to prepare and maintain the race trikes through servicing, component cleaning, wheel changes and general event preparation. Students can have input into vehicle graphic designs and how we present ourselves on race day.
Pedal Prix is way more than a school activity, it is way more than making life time friendships, it is way more than learning to ride a bike, it can open so many doors with experiences to set you up for an exciting life as it has for me!
- Steel von Hoff
(2018 Commonwealth Games
Gold Medalist)
Pedal Prix at Norwood International High is the ultimate family experience. There are few other ways to be involved in your child’s chosen sport, than connecting with other families over a Pedal Prix event. The 6-, 8- and 24-hour events in previous years, gave families amazing connection opportunities, whilst seeing their child’s competitive spirit flourish. Aimed at all students, our program has exponentially grown over the last 5-years with new equipment being added annually. As one of the competition’s leading teams, we are in this for the long haul, so we encourage you to and your family to join us on this journey.
- David Watts (Student Parent)