pathways at Monivae is a diverse range of electives and subjects available for the 2025 school year. Downloading the subject guides below will assist making choices that will shape students academic journey and future success.
Religious Education
Religious Education at Monivae College aims to prepare students to be lifelong learners and global citizens in a pluralist society where multiple worldviews coexist. The Monivae Graduate is provided a quality Catholic education so that each person may know and be invited to experience the living spirit of Christ, informed by the charism of Fr. Jules Chevalier and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.
At Monivae College, students have the opportunity to learn about the life and message of Jesus Christ through the study of Scripture and human experience. Using dialogue and critical thinking skills, students are encouraged to question, reflect and respond to further develop their own identity and spiritual formation. This response includes quality Christian relationships with those they meet and with whom they live, acting in a morally compatible manner with Christ’s commandment of: “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:29)
The principles of Catholic Social Teachings are embedded in the Religious Education curriculum at Monivae College and students are encouraged to go out into the world and embody the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart’s ethos.
For more information contact Religious Education Faculty Leader Lia Mailes lmailes@monivae.vic.edu.au
English
Year 7
By the end of Year 7, students will be able to:
- Understand how and why authors construct their texts based on audience and purpose.
- Explore issues and ideas from a variety of viewpoints.
- Create texts that inform, persuade, and entertain.
- Engage in class discussion, debate, and deliver oral presentations.
Year 8
By the end of Year 8, students will be able to:
- Explain how and why authors construct their texts based on audience and purpose.
- Explain how language features, images and vocabulary are used to represent different viewpoints.
- Create texts for different purposes, selecting language to influence audience response.
- Elaborate on their ideas in class discussion and debate and create presentations designed to persuade.
Year 9
By the end of Year 9, students will be able to:
- Analyse and explain how images and text structures can
be manipulated for effect - Create texts that respond to issues, interpreting and
integrating ideas from other texts. - Manipulate language features and images to create
innovative texts. - Make presentations and contribute to class discussion.
Year 10
By the end of Year 10, students will be able to:
- Evaluate how text structures can be used in innovative ways.
- Explain different viewpoints through the development of cohesive and logical arguments.
- Articulate complex ideas through written, spoken, and multimodal texts.
- Solve problems, justify opinions and develop arguments through contributing actively to class discussion
Years 11 & 12
VCE English - focuses on how English language is used to create meaning in written, spoken and multimodal texts of varying complexity.
Literary texts selected for study are drawn from the past and present, from Australia and other cultures. Other texts are selected for analysis and presentation of argument.
The study is intended to meet the needs of students with a wide range of expectations and aspirations, including those for whom English is an additional language.
VCE Literature - focuses on the meaning derived from texts, the relationship between texts, the contexts in which texts are produced and read, and the experiences the reader brings to texts.
In VCE Literature students undertake close reading of texts and analyse how language and literary elements and techniques function within a text. Literature enables students to examine the historical and cultural contexts within which both readers and texts are situated.
For more information, contact Jane Nankivell, English Faculty Leader jnankivell@monivae.vic.edu.au
Mathematics
Mathematics at Monivae College provides students with essential mathematical knowledge, skills, procedures and processes in number, measurement, space, statistics and probability.
The Mathematics Curriculum aims to ensure that students:
· develop useful mathematical and numeracy skills for everyday life and work, as active and critical citizens in a technological world
· become confident, proficient, effective and adaptive users of mathematics
· become effective communicators of mathematics who can investigate, represent and interpret situations in their personal and work lives, think critically, and make choices as active, engaged, numerate citizens
· develop proficiency with mathematical concepts, skills, procedures and processes, and use them to demonstrate mastery in mathematics as they pose and solve problems, and reason with number, algebra, measurement, space, statistics and probability
· make connections between areas of mathematics and apply mathematics to model situations in various fields and disciplines
· develop a positive disposition towards mathematics, recognising it as an accessible and useful discipline to study
· appreciate mathematics as a discipline – its history, ideas, problems and applications, aesthetics and philosophy.
Mathematics is a sequential subject that is compulsory for all students until the end of Year 10. The subjects offered in the Mathematics Faculty are:
Year 7 Mathematics
Year 8 Mathematics
Year 9 Mainstream Mathematics
Consolidating Mathematics
Year 10 Advanced Mathematics
Mainstream Mathematics
Consolidating Mathematics
Year 11 Specialist Mathematics
Mathematical Methods
General Mathematics
Foundation Mathematics
Year 12 Specialist Mathematics
Mathematical Methods
General Mathematics
Foundation Mathematics
For more information, contact Jacinta Ryan, Mathematics Faculty Leader jryan@monivae.vic.edu.au
Science
A Monivae science student is: An independent learner, A creative thinker, Engaged and Curious
Year 7
Introduction to Science and A Tangled Web – Introduction to Biology, Just the Basics – Introduction to Chemistry and Chemistry Skills, May the Force be with you – Introduction to Physics
Year 8
Mini to Massive – From atoms to the universe and how we view these, Can we build a Bionic Eye? – Sight, Light and Vision, Brave New World – all the components needed to colonise a new world, body system, ecosystems, getting there and communication home.
Year 9
Chemistry – the Periodic Table, Bonding of atoms, Nuclear energy Requirements for Life – Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration, the nervous and endocrine systems, Electricity – Circuits, Resistance, Current and Electronics, Extended Practical Investigation – an independently designed experiment with a chemistry focus
Year 10
Chemistry – Rate of reactions and types of reactions, Genetics and Evolution – DNA, replication and types of evolution, Motion – Forces and Newtons Laws, Extended Practical Investigation – an independently designed experiment based on the Year 10 course content.
Year 9 & 10 Electives
Forensics - Develop forensics skills and solve a murder
STEM - Introduction to STEM technologies and individual project work based on STEM technologies.
Agricultural Studies - Introduction to the diverse Australian agriculture, business management techniques and technology in workplaces and learn about making informed, ethical decisions for mindful agricultural engagement.
Agricultural Skills - Introduction to fundamental skills for starting an agricultural career, such as chemical and animal handling, along with plant growth experiments and excursions to local primary industries.
Inner workings of animals - Internal structures of animals from simple organisms to complex animals.
Environmental Science -An introduction to VCE Environmental Science and the environment around us with a focus on the basic skills needed for field work.
Psychology -An introduction to VCE Psychology, to prepare students for the fascinating world of our mind.
VCE - Units 1 and 2 studied in Year 11. Units 3 and 4 studied in Year 12.
Agricultural and Horticultural Studies - An interdisciplinary approach to the exploration of food and fibre production, with an overarching focus on land cultivation and the raising of plants and animals through evidence-based, sustainable and ethical practices. Focusing on the rapid rate of change in the agriculture and horticulture industries and the increasing application of innovation and data-driven initiatives Unit 1: Change and opportunity Unit 2: Growing plants and animals Unit 3: Securing the future Unit 4: Sustainable food and fibre production
Biology - Examines the dynamic relationships between organisms and their interactions with the non- living environment. It explores the processes of life, from the molecular world of the cell to that of the whole organism Unit 1: How do organisms regulate their functions? Unit 2: How is does inheritance impact on diversity? Unit 3: How do cells maintain life? Unit 4: How does life change and respond to challenges?
Psychology - is a multifaceted discipline that seeks to describe, explain, understand and predict human behaviour and mental processes. It includes many sub-fields of study that explore and seek to better understand how individuals, groups, communities and societies think, feel and act. Unit 1: How are behaviour and mental processes shaped? Unit 2: How do internal and external factors influence behaviour and mental processes? Unit 3: How does experience affect behaviour and mental processes? Unit 4: How is mental wellbeing supported and maintained?
Physics - Seeks to understand and explain the physical world. It examines the way matter and energy interact. Through observations, measurements and experiments, physicists gain a better understanding of the underlying laws of nature. Unit 1: How is energy useful to society? Unit 2: How does Physics help us understand the world? Unit 3: How do fields explain motion and electricity? Unit 4: How have creative ideas and investigation revolutionised thinking in Physics?
Environmental Science - an interdisciplinary, investigative science that explores the interactions and interconnections between humans and their environments. Unit 1: How are Earth’s dynamic systems interconnected to support life? Unit 2: What affects Earth’s capacity to sustain life? Unit 3: How can biodiversity and development be sustained? Unit 4: How can climate change and the impacts of human energy use be managed?
For more information, contact Julie Dohle, Science Faculty Leader jdohle@monivae.vic.edu.au
Visual Arts and Technology
Our Arts Technology department is passionate and committed to ensuring every student gets the opportunity to develop practical, design and creative skills over a wide variety of subjects.
Year 7-8 students receive an introduction to Art, Wood, Food Tech, Textiles and Digital Technology. They develop basic practical skills and gain an understanding of the relevant elements and principles. Students develop independence and confidence to design, create and make.
Year 9 and 10 electives provide students the opportunity to further develop their skills and explore their passions. Students can choose: Dressmaker, textiles, ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, digital photography, sheet metal, outdoor furniture, skateboards, just desserts and multicultural foods
These pathways lead into three VCE options of Product design and Technology, Creative Practice, and Visual Communication and Design.
The Arts Technology staff are a highly skilled team with an ardent love of teaching and developing students to meet their full potential.
For more information, contact Rachel Rowe, Visual Arts and Technology Faculty Leader rrowe@monivae.vic.edu.au
Humanities
Humanities at Monivae College is the study of human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. It has a historical and contemporary focus, from personal to the global context, and considers opportunities and challenges for the future.
Years 7-10 students study a range of units covering the following domains: Civics and Citizenship, Economics and Business, Geography, and History. These diverse subject offerings provide rich opportunities for students to develop critical thinking skills and engage in real-world learning.
In VCE students can pursue their love of humanities through the following VCE offerings: Accounting, Business Management, Geography, History (Revolutions) and Legal Studies.
Ultimately, the study of Humanities at Monivae College seeks to inspire students, create informed and engaged citizens and foster a deep understanding of the world around them.
For more information, contact Finuala Neeson, Humanities Faculty Leader fneeson@monivae.vic.edu.au
Health and Physical Education
At Monivae College, our Health and Physical Education program is dedicated to nurturing the well-being and physical prowess of our students. Our approach goes beyond physical activity; it aims to foster a lifelong commitment to health and well-being.
Our curriculum offers a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for both their academic and personal futures. Students from years 7 to 10 engage in practical units that focus on fundamental movement patterns, recreational pursuits and various sports, including water safety. Physical skills, tactics, and teamwork are integral components of these practical classes.
In health classes, we cover a wide range of subjects, including safety and risk management, mental health, mens and womens health issues, nutrition, sexual health and consent, relationships, physical activity, and the effects of drugs and alcohol.
Elective units in years 9 and 10 provide students with opportunities to explore areas that lead into the VCE studies of Physical Education, Health and Human Development, and Outdoor and Environmental Studies. Additional units allow students to experience international sports and participate in fitness activities tailored for both men and women.
Through the development of skills and knowledge acquired in years 7 to 10, students are set up for success in VCE studies including Physical Education, Health and Human Development and Outdoor and Environmental Studies.
For more information, contact Scott Kruger, Health and Physical Education Faculty Leader skruger@monivae.vic.edu.au
Performing Arts - Drama
Learning in Drama allows students to think, move, speak and act with confidence. Students learn to explore elements of drama, develop communication skills with an audience and interact with other actors.
Students present short plays, develop characters and expression and analyse the works of others.
Year 7
Students learn non-verbal communication skills through mime. They learn communication and vocal skills as well as storytelling with expression. Students analyse and recreate short plays, learn to improvise and participate in Theatre Sports.
Year 8
Students focus on recreating and writing short plays. Students learn a range of different styles of theatre and develop acting and presentation skills.
For more information, contact Alisa Houlihan, Performing Arts Faculty Leader ahoulihan@monivae.vic.edu.au
Performing Arts - Music
The aim of learning in music is to develop musicianship skills, creativity and to listen, compose and to perform music.
Year 7 - A Semester subject
Students select a concert band instrument to study as a part of this class. They learn to perform within a concert band and as a soloist. They compose for this instrument as well as developing skills in reading conventional notation. Students receive complimentary instrument hire and tuition as a part of this program and have the option of continuing their study of a concert band instrument after the semester is completed.
Year 8- A semester subject
The focus area is the history of rock music and students learn additional skills on keyboard, guitar, bass guitar and drums. Students analyse music from a variety of genres, compose music within a style and learn how to rehearse and perform as a part of a group.
Years 9 - A semester subject
Students will develop their skills and techniques on a variety of instruments and use those skills to perform as a member of a small or class group. They will explore how to play the music of others, perform as a member of a group, develop rehearsal techniques for your group and analyse a range of performances and contemporary styles of music. Students will compose music using both loop based and traditional notation and further develop musicianship skills.
Music The Performer - A major elective.
This subject gives students the opportunity to develop and explore the skills you need to be a confident performer on your instrument or voice. You will explore rehearsal techniques,
develop skills on your instrument and harness performance nerves as you learn to perform to a range of audiences as a soloist and within a group. You will explore a range of music and performances, and write music for your instrument. Perfect for those aspiring to undertake VCE Music and/or those who wish to be a musician.
VCE Music
Students undertaking VCE music are advised to have been receiving tuition on an instrument for at least 3 years prior to undertaking this study.
Unit 1 and 2 focuses on the organisation and the effect in music. Students will develop performance skills, music language skills, composition skills and analysis skills.
Units 3 and 4 Music Performance Repertoire
As a soloist, students select at least one work from the prescribed list and develop a program of works for performance.
Students develop music language skills, performance skills, analysis skills and composition skills.
Co curricula Programs and Activities
Monivae values the importance of music education and as such, subsidises musical tuition so that lessons are affordable for most families.
Students have the opportunity to learn a range of instruments in small groups or individually with specialist teachers
Students in years 7 and 8 can receive free tuition on a concert band instrument and lessons do not exceed $20 per half hour.
Half hour lessons are available during school hours on a wide variety of instrument and lesson Enrolment applications are available
Choir
Monivae has a non-auditioned, inclusive choir that rehearses once a week.
Our focus is on developing vocal technique, harmony and ensemble skills.
All students are welcome regardless of experience and students undertaking singing lessons are encouraged to attend. .
Concert Band
Students who have been learning a concert band instrument for 6 months or more are encouraged to join the College Concert Band. This ensemble learns a variety of well known music and is non auditioned.
For more information, contact Alisa Houlihan, Performing Arts Faculty Leader ahoulihan@monivae.vic.edu.au
Cadets
The cadet program is designed to inspire and empower students through a blend of military-like skills, teamwork, and challenges to further build resilience. It is a leading national youth development organisation, with the character and values of the Australian Army.
From mastering navigation and RATEL skills to first aid, through a series of activities, cadets learn invaluable life skills, adaptability, and critical thinking. Cadets have the opportunity to engage in a number of exciting activities such as archery, scuba diving, abseiling, rock climbing and kayaking. Cadets can also further hone their skills by attending leadership and specialist camps throughout the year.
As the program is student led, senior cadets take on leadership roles, whether it's planning and executing activities or managing logistics and safety protocols. This gives them valuable experience in decision-making, teamwork, and communication
As a cadet you will emerge as a skilled leader and equipped with the determination to overcome any of life’s challenges.
For more information, contact Sarah Byron, Cadets Co-ordinator sbyron@monivae.vic.edu.au
Indonesian
Learning Indonesian is an exciting opportunity to develop valuable communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of the connection between language and culture. As students explore this fascinating language, they’ll discover how it can open doors to a world of personal, social, cultural, and even professional opportunities in our increasingly interconnected global community.
By embracing the challenge of learning Indonesian, students will be joining the growing ranks of bilingual and plurilingual individuals who make up the majority of our diverse world. Not only will they enhance their own linguistic abilities, but they’ll also contribute to the strengthening of communities on a social, economic, and international level.
Learning Indonesian is not just about acquiring a new skill; it's also a mental exercise that will sharpen a student’s intellectual, analytical, and reflective abilities. They’ll boost their creative and critical thinking skills, and become a more versatile and adaptable individual ready to take on new challenges.
For more information, contact Viona Towers vtowers@monivae.vic.edu.au
VCE Vocational Major
Subject Selection
VCE VM (Vocational Major)
Work placement is done each Thursday as either a school-based apprentice or a VET Structured Workplace Learning. This vocational focus is also reflected in the subjects studied in this course. The four compulsory strands are 1. Literacy & Numeracy 2. Work Related Skills 3. Industry Specific (VET or SBA) 4. Personal Development Skills. The Business Certificate course and Religion make up the remainder of the curriculum.
The VET (Vocational Education & Training) courses offered are Automotive Technology, Building & Construction, Cookery, Salon Assistant, Make-Up, Creative Industries 3D, Game Programming, Music, Agriculture, Early Childhood Studies. Health & Community Services, Engineering, Sport & Recreation. In addition to this VCE VM students can choose a further range of VET courses and SBAs as their vocational course is tailored to their needs and interest.
Learning outcomes are graded as Satisfactory or Not Yet Satisfactory which are assessed through various practical projects. VCE VM is designed to enhance and increase pathways from school to further education & training in TAFE courses and some universities, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment. Over the years Monivae VCE VM students have had a very good success rate in this wide range of career outcomes.
VET Vocational Education and Training
There are 3 ways of studying VET.
All count as part of the VCE and VCE VM and on completion provide accredited TAFE certificates.
1.VET Delivered to Secondary Schools
VET is an elective at Years 10,11 & 12 and is a compulsory part of the VCE VM course. VET is recognised as part of the VCE and contributes to the ATAR as either a scored assessment or the 10% increment, depending on the VET course. VET studies can be fast tracked at Year 10 so that by the end of Year 11 students have VCE units 1 to 4. It is also advantageous for a Year 10 student considering VCE VM to do a VET course to establish their vocational interest and to assist in sourcing a work placement for the VCE VM year. VET courses are delivered at various locations as set out below
Monivae delivers Engineering.
HDSC (Hamilton District Skills Centre ) delivers Automotive Technology, Building & Construction, Cookery, Salon Assistant, Make-Up (partial), Creative Industries 3D, Applied Digital Technologies (Game Programming)
SW TAFE Hamilton delivers Agriculture, Early Childhood Studies. Health & Community Services, Visual Arts.
2. School-based apprenticeships
In addition to VET courses there are School-based apprenticeships for Year 10 ,11 and 12 students in Agriculture at RIST which combine study with work placement provided by an employer. School based apprenticeships receive a 10% increment in the ATAR. The increment is determined by calculating 10% of the fourth study score in the primary four. School-based apprenticeships in any other area can only be done by VCE VM students.
3. Part-time School Apprenticeships
Can be done out of school hours by students in years 10,11 and 12. They count as block credit to VCE and VCE VM. These are usually done in the areas of hospitality and retail.
For more information, contact Simon Hatherell VCE VM and VET Faculty Leader shatherell@monivae.vic.edu.au