Subject Selection for 2026

Lourdes Hill College held a highly successful Subject Selection Evening on 19 May for current Year 9 and 10 families. The subjects students choose at this stage can significantly influence their university options, vocational training opportunities or direct entry into the workforce.

Below are key considerations when supporting your daughter through the decision-making process:

Interests and Strengths

Encourage your student to select subjects she genuinely enjoys and excels in; success and satisfaction often go hand in hand. Reflecting on her academic performance, personal interests, and areas of strength can help guide choices that align with her abilities and aspirations.

Career and Study Pathways

Students should consider their long-term goals when selecting subjects. Whether they plan to attend university, TAFE, undertake an apprenticeship or enter the workforce, understanding the prerequisites for tertiary courses or specific careers is important. For those still exploring their options, choosing a balanced mix of subjects can help keep pathways open.

Core and Elective Subjects

Religion, English and Mathematics are compulsory and form the foundation for most future pathways. Elective subjects offer students the chance to tailor their learning, pursue interests, and explore potential career areas while maintaining flexibility for future changes.

Pathway Types

Depending on their aspirations, students may choose from different educational routes:

• ATAR Pathway – Students planning to apply for university should focus on General subjects that contribute to an ATAR and meet university prerequisites.
• Flexible/VET Pathway – Students considering TAFE, trades or direct workforce entry may explore Applied subjects, VET courses, and school-based apprenticeships or traineeships.

Support and Advice

Subject selection can feel overwhelming, so seeking support from teachers, career advisors and family is encouraged. Useful resources include the Year 10 Studies Guide, Year 11 Studies Guide, the QTAC website and the myQCE website.

Students are reminded not to base their decisions on friends’ choices or perceived subject difficulty. Instead, they should focus on subjects that align with their strengths and future goals. Consistent effort in Year 10 is important, as performance can affect subject eligibility and opportunities in Years 11 and 12.

Supporting your student to make informed, confident choices now will help set her up for success throughout senior schooling and beyond.