WA Curriculum: Kindergarten to Year 10 in Western Australia

When it comes to the key subjects of English, Mathematics and Science in Kindergarten through to Year 10, the Western Australia curriculum framework remains broadly consistent to that of the general Australian curriculum. Where it differs is in the delivery of year level syllabuses for Humanities and Social Sciences, Health and Physical Education, Technologies, The Arts, and Languages, whereas The Australian curriculum is written in bands for each of these subjects. 

Governed by the Western Australia Department of Education, the context and subject matter is intended to be suitable to Western Australian students and teachers, with a focus on local history and geography within the teaching and learning, and a reflection of the diverse range of cultures and religious groups residing in Western Australia within each learning area. 

This localised slant within the curriculum is delivered through the Guiding Principles for Western Australian Schools, a document based on the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration that governs the Australian curriculum. These Guiding Principles ensure that all Western Australian children have the opportunity to receive schooling that contributes to a cohesive society and respects all cultural and social needs of learners, as well as their educational needs.

Breaking down the requirements for second tier K-Y10 subjects

The Western Australian curriculum for primary school is based on students studying at least one language from pre-primary to Year 10, or between Year 3 and 8 at a minimum. After Year 8, languages are optional. 

Arts is similar, but two subjects are required up until Year 8, with a performative and visual subject stipulated in the curriculum. Again in Years 9 and 10, Arts are optional subjects. With Technologies, students must study a subject each within Design and other Technologies – and again, can choose to continue if they wish in Years 9 and 10.

Achievement standards for each subject are governed and guided by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, with courses at schools accredited based on levels of achievement. Assessment and reporting is also governed by this authority, which ensures schools assess student progress and report to parents on a regular basis.

Studying for the Western Australian Certificate of Education

Students in Years 11 and 12 study towards The Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE). While most will achieve this by the end of their schooling, it is also possible to continue working towards this certificate over a lifetime if required and desired.

The WACE includes a wide range of subject matters, educational pathways and courses to ensure that all interests and aspirations are covered by the curriculum. These courses are categorised as either Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), General, Foundation, Vocational Educational Training (VET) industry specific, and Preliminary.

Whether studied in public school or privately, or delivered through a hands-on course or through community or work experience, the achievement of the WACE can be different for all students. Generally, Year 10 students will plan student learning programs for the achievement of their WACE to be followed over their final two years of study.

Find out how EP can support learning programs in WA