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.

Our subjects

Students learn a wide range of subjects in the NSW curriculum. They build skills, think creatively and prepare for life beyond school. Explore how we teach the NSW curriculum through key learning areas.

Best practice teaching and learning
An evidence-informed approach to quality teaching, curriculum planning, implementation and assessment promotes learning excellence. Teaching and learning programming are responsive to the learning needs of students and syllabus requirements.
English

In English, students explore spoken, written, and visual texts, learning how meaning is created and understood. As they advance, they engage with increasingly complex texts to develop critical, creative, and reflective skills. Mastery of English empowers students to communicate confidently, think imaginatively, and participate actively in Australian society. This learning supports their intellectual, social, and emotional growth. The English curriculum fosters a love of literature and learning by providing challenging and enjoyable experiences. It equips students to experiment with ideas, collaborate with others, and become independent, lifelong learners who reflect on their progress.

Stage 4:

  • English (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • English (mandatory)

Stage 6:

  • English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
  • English Studies
  • English Standard
  • English Advanced
  • English Extension 1
  • English Extension 2
Mathematics

In Mathematics, students develop fluency, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning, and communication skills through mathematical thinking. The curriculum is structured around three strands: Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. By engaging with these areas, students build a strong foundation to apply mathematical skills in real-world contexts. The learning encourages analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and effective communication of mathematical ideas. Through exploration and practice, students gain confidence and competence in mathematics, enabling them to become critical thinkers and informed decision-makers in everyday life and further studies.

Stage 4:

  • Mathematics (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Mathematics (mandatory)

Stage 6:

  • Numeracy (CEC)
  • Mathematics Standard
  • Mathematics Advanced
  • Mathematics Extension 1
  • Mathematics Extension 2
Science

In Science, students are encouraged to undertake their own inquiries into the natural world, fostering curiosity and evidence-based understanding. Students develop skills for working scientifically, including questioning, investigating, analysing, and communicating findings. The curriculum emphasises critical and creative thinking to explore scientific concepts and to solve real-world problems. Through practical investigations and exploration, students learn to evaluate evidence and apply scientific knowledge responsibly. This approach prepares students to make informed decisions, understand the impact of science on society and the environment, and engage as active, scientifically literate citizens. Science learning is dynamic, collaborative, and relevant to everyday life.

Stage 4:

  • Science (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Science (mandatory)

Stage 6:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Earth and Environmental Science
  • Investigating Science
  • Physics
  • Science Extension
Technology and Applied Science

In Technological and Applied Studies, students develop knowledge, understanding, and skills through design and production processes using diverse tools, materials, and techniques in theory and practical lessons. Technology learning focuses on increasingly sophisticated application of design and production skills. Students may specialise through elective courses that explore specific technologies and design aspects. This learning encourages creativity, problem-solving, and practical skills, preparing students to innovate and respond effectively to real-world technological challenges.

Stage 4:

  • Technology (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Food Technology
  • Food Technology and Hospitality (Certificate I)
  • Industrial Technology Engineering
  • Industrial Technology Timber
  • Design and Technology
  • Textiles Technology
  • Computing Technology

Stage 6:

  • Design and Technology
  • Engineering Studies
  • Food Technology
  • Industrial Technology Timber
  • Software Engineering
  • Textiles and Design
HSIE

In Human Society and its Environment (HSIE), students develop geographical, commercial, and historical knowledge, concepts, and skills, exploring people, societies, and environments, business and economic knowledge, concepts, and skills, exploring people, societies, and environments. HSIE elective subjects provide deeper learning opportunities. The HSIE curriculum encourages students to research, gather, and analyse diverse sources of information, fostering critical thinking and informed judgement. Students learn to communicate effectively by writing for varied purposes. Through inquiry-based learning, they understand the complexities of past and present worlds, developing skills to engage as active, responsible citizens. HSIE supports their ability to reflect, question, and participate thoughtfully in society and the environment.

Stage 4:

  • Geography (mandatory)
  • History (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Geography (mandatory)
  • History (mandatory)
  • Commerce
  • History Elective

Stage 6:

  • Ancient History
  • Business Studies
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • History Extension
  • Legal Studies
  • Modern History
  • Society and Culture
  • Studies of Religion
Creative Arts

In Creative Arts, students develop skills in creating, performing, appreciating, and responding across diverse art forms. Each discipline offers unique knowledge, techniques, and elements that foster creativity and self-expression. The curriculum encourages students to explore, experiment, and communicate ideas, emotions, and stories through artistic practice. Engaging with the arts enriches lives by inspiring imagination, cultural understanding, and personal growth. Through making and responding, students develop critical thinking and collaboration skills, becoming confident creators and appreciative audiences in a dynamic and culturally diverse society.

Stage 4:

  • Music (mandatory)
  • Visual Arts (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Dance
  • Drama
  • Photographic and Digital Media
  • Visual Arts
  • Visual Design

Stage 6:

  • Dance
  • Drama
  • Music 1
  • Music 2
  • Music Extension
  • Photography, Video and Digital Imaging
  • Visual Arts
PDHPE

In Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE), students are provided opportunities to explore health, safety, and wellbeing issues affecting themselves and others, now and in the future. Students engage in challenging and enjoyable physical activities, developing skills, confidence, and fitness. PDHPE encourages informed decision-making, resilience, and positive relationships. Through theory and practical experiences, students build knowledge and understand the importance of maintaining a balanced, active, and healthy lifestyle. The program supports their physical, social, and emotional development, preparing them for lifelong wellbeing and participation in community life.

Stage 4:

  • PDHPE (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • PDHPE (mandatory)
  • Child Studies
  • Physical Activity and Sports Studies

Stage 6:

  • Community and Family Studies
  • Health and Movement Science
  • Sports, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies
Languages

In Languages, students develop effective communication skills while exploring languages as structured systems. Students engage with diverse linguistic and cultural contexts, deepening their understanding of language’s role in society. Through listening, speaking, reading, and writing, they explore how language shapes identity, culture, and social interactions. The curriculum fosters intercultural understanding, empathy, and respect for diversity. By reflecting on language use and cultural practices, students become confident, informed communicators who appreciate global connections and cultural heritage, preparing them to participate meaningfully in Australia’s multicultural society and beyond. The school also has a strong partnership with the NSW School of Language to provide our students with access to language subjects beyond our school-based choices.

Stage 4:

  • French (mandatory)
  • Indonesian (mandatory)

Stage 5:

  • Indonesian Continuers
  • French Continuers

Stage 6:

  • Indonesian Continuers
  • Japanese Beginners
VET

Vocational Education and Training (VET) subjects provide students with practical skills and industry knowledge, complementing their academic studies and enhancing career pathways. Aligned with the NESA curriculum, these courses offer hands-on learning in real-world contexts across diverse industries. Students develop competencies that meet national standards, gaining valuable qualifications and work-ready skills. VET programs foster confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, preparing students for further education, apprenticeships, or employment. Our school’s Stage 6 VET courses empower students to explore their interests, build expertise, and succeed in a competitive workforce while achieving their Higher School Certificate.

Stage 6:

  • Construction Pathways
  • Entertainment
  • Fitness
  • Hospitality - Cookery
Religion and ethics

At our school, students can take part in special religious education (SRE) classes.. These classes are delivered an approved provider.

When enrolling your child, you’ll be able to choose an option from the approved providers offered at our school. Students not attending SRE are given supervised alternative meaningful activities.

You’re welcome to change your choice at any time. Just let us know in writing or use the online form.

For more information, visit the department’s website or contact us.

Our school offers SRE seminars each term through Combined Christian and Catholic - Think Faith.

Our school also offers voluntary activities to support religious and ethical learning and practice:

  • SOUL Christian Group
  • Islamic Prayer
  • Catholics at RSC

More information can be found on School Bytes - Resources.

Capabilities and priorities

Capabilities build the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours for successful living and working, while priorities develop students’ understanding of the world.

Life Ready

Life Ready is a mandatory course covering six key learning areas, including: independence, mental health and wellbeing, relationships, sexuality and sexual health, drugs and alcohol, and safe travel.

Our learning approach

At Ryde Secondary College, our learning approach is guided by the School Excellence Plan, focusing on differentiation, clarity, inclusion, and engagement. We implement explicit teaching to clearly communicate learning goals, their relevance, and step-by-step processes, breaking complex ideas into manageable parts to support mastery. Our student-centred approach values equity and access, supporting diverse learning needs and styles. Teachers employ evidence-based strategies and engage in continuous professional learning to ensure best practices.

Our learning approach includes:

Our programs include authentic, real-world learning experiences, integration of technology to enhance digital literacy, personalised support promoting student wellbeing and engagement, and strong community partnerships.

Helping students progress

We support every student’s academic progress by:

Learn more about additional learning support at our school.

Additional Learning Support

Find out how we support students with disability or additional learning needs.

High Potential and Gifted Education

Find out how we support students with high potential and giftedness across domains.

Want to know more about our subjects?

We can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.

Contact us

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.