Introduction to Senior School
Empowering Students to Excel
As one of the best-performing, non-selective schools in the country, Christ Church provides an environment that combines intellectual challenge with strong pastoral support, enabling Senior School boys to reach their full potential. The breadth of subject choice, expert teaching, and access to specialist facilities foster a culture of high achievement. The School’s commitment to developing critical thinking, independence, and resilience ensures students are well-prepared for university pathways and life beyond Christ Church.
Teaching and Learning
The Christ Church Pedagogy, the art and science of teaching, is the result of extensive research, gained from classrooms across the globe, into what motivates boys and how students learn best. It is at the forefront of all that we do, as we motivate every student to achieve individual and collective excellence.
The following factors form the pillars of Christ Church Grammar School’s pedagogical framework:
- Catering for individual differences
- Providing structure and feedback
- Enhancing personal bests
Phases of Learning
Senior School students will journey through the Phases of Learning, motivating them to discover and realise the best in themselves and others.
Phases of Learning
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Years 7 to 8 - Exploring his abilities
Students are introduced to a wide range of academic, extra-curricular and pastoral experiences and are encouraged to make the most of all opportunities. They are engaged in structured learning in Numeracy, Literacy, Humanities and Science.
During this phase, activities such as Languages, the Arts, Design and Technology, Personal and Spiritual Development and Sport provide a diverse and well-rounded education. Students are also able to explore activities such as Debating, Public Speaking, Chess and Service in Action to spark passion and interest.
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Years 9 to 10 – Choosing his path in life
In this second phase, students make subject choices and discover their strengths, beginning the process of making informed decisions. Taking personal responsibility for learning is given greater focus and creativity and innovation is encouraged.
Exposure to challenging outdoor activities, combined with the compulsory engagement in the Year 10 Cadet program (Army, Surf Life Saving or Environment and Community) provides opportunities in leadership, teamwork, service and commitment. In the sporting domain, the skill level and intensity of competition increases significantly.
Students explore global opportunities through the Beyond Queenslea Drive exchange program or choose from a host of sporting, cultural and service tours to interstate and overseas destinations.
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Years 11 to 12 – Mastering skills for his future
This final phase of the student’s educational journey involves taking ownership for their selected subjects and learning. The choice of university entrance or pursuit of a work-based orientated course is a decision for the individual and their family. Students are given degrees of independence over these years, allowing them to pursue a direction and to forge a path to becoming fine young men.
Senior School students will journey through the Phases of Learning, motivating them to discover and realise the best in themselves and others.
Elective Subjects
Senior School students can choose from a comprehensive list of elective subjects. Electives allow students to explore their interests and develop practical skills, ensuring every boy has the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.
The elective list includes Art and Drama, Design and Technology, Philosophy, Media Production, Business Management, Psychology, Politics & Law. Languages on offer include French, Mandarin, and Japanese.
As students progress through the Senior School years, elective options expand, and students are encouraged to consider choices that are aligned to their future pathways.
Co-curricular
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Academic Excellence & Support
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Study Lab / Teacher Tuition
