Learning in Senior School

At St Catherine's, learning is designed to help every girl discover her strengths, pursue her interests and prepare for life beyond school.

Learning that grows with every student

At St Catherine’s, learning is designed to help every girl discover her strengths, pursue her interests and prepare for life beyond school. Our broad and flexible curriculum encourages students to challenge themselves, explore new opportunities and develop confidence in their abilities within a learning environment intentionally designed for girls.

With nearly 40 Higher School Certificate (HSC) courses available, students can build a personalised pattern of study that reflects their interests, aspirations and goals. Many subjects are offered at extension level, ensuring girls are both challenged and supported to achieve their personal best. Expert guidance throughout subject selection helps students make informed decisions aligned with university pathways, career ambitions and evolving interests.

I really value the learning culture that our
teachers have created here — it’s such
a supportive community. The teachers
are incredible, and they really take on a
mentoring role. They’re always available,
and they genuinely want to see us do
our best.

eden

Personalised support every step of the way

Every student is supported by a dedicated network of teachers and staff who take the time to understand her strengths, challenges and goals. Our Head of Teaching and Learning, Heads of Year, Learning Enrichment team and classroom teachers work together to provide personalised guidance throughout the Senior School years.

Students have access to the Research Centre, teacher-run Prep Centre and small-group masterclasses, while every Year 12 student is assigned an academic mentor for regular check-ins and support. Together with families, we help girls build confidence, maintain balance and develop the skills, resilience and independence needed to thrive both at school and beyond.

Cambridge pathways to global learning

From 2027, St Catherine’s is proud to offer a selection of Cambridge IGCSE courses as part of our Stage 5 elective program, expanding learning pathways for students in Years 9 and 10. Alongside our existing electives, these internationally recognised courses provide students with greater choice, opportunities for deeper subject exploration and exposure to global perspectives, while remaining aligned with the rich and purposeful learning experiences that define a St Catherine’s education.

Designed to be studied over two years and provides an opportunity for students to engage with rigorous subject learning through an international curriculum. The Cambridge IGCSE courses available to 2027 Year 9 students are:

  • Cambridge IGCSE Sociology
  • Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science
  • Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives
  • Cambridge IGCSE Psychology