Learning
At Canley Vale High School, we follow the NSW curriculum and offer a wide range of subjects to support every student’s learning journey. We recognise that strong literacy and numeracy skills are the foundation for both academic success and everyday life. Our teachers use evidence-based strategies to engage students, build skills, and help them achieve their personal and academic 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.
What students learn
Students learn a wide range of subjects in the NSW curriculum. They build skills, think creatively and prepare for life beyond school.
There are 6 stages of learning from Kindergarten to Year 12. High school covers Stages 4 to 6.
Explore how we teach the NSW curriculum through key learning areas.
The following subjects are taught in Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8)
- English
- Geography
- History
- Home Economics
- Industrial Arts
- Languages - Japanese & Spanish
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Music
- PDHPE
- Science
- Visual Arts
The minimum requirements for the Record of School Achievement (RoSA) in Stage 5 include the following:
Mandatory Subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- PDHPE
- Sport
- History
- Geography
- Literacy
- Elective 1
- Elective 2
Stage 5 Elective Subjects offered at CVHS
- Commerce
- Computing Technology
- Drama
- Food Technology
- High Achievers
- History Elective
- International Studies
- Industrial Arts ( Engineering, Multimedia and Timber)
- Japanese
- Music
- Performing Arts
- Photographic and Digital Media
- Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS)
- STEM
- Textiles Technology
- Visual Arts
Board Developed Courses
- Ancient History
- Biology
- Business Studies
- Chemistry
- Community and Family Studies
- Drama
- Economics
- Engineering Studies
- English (Advanced, Standard, Studies, EAL/D, Extension 1)
- Enterprise Computing
- Food Technology
- Geography
- Health and Movement Science
- Industrial Technology - Multimedia Technologies
- Investigating Science
- Japanese (Beginners, Continuers)
- Legal Studies
- Mathematics (Advanced, Standard, Extension 1)
- Modern History
- Music 1, Music 2
- Physics
- Society and Culture
- Studies of Religion 1
- Textiles and Design
- Visual Arts
- Languages - Secondary College of Languages
VET Courses
-
BUSINESS SERVICES
BSB30120 - Certificate III in Business
-
RETAIL SERVICES
SIR30216 - Certificate III in Retail
-
CONSTRUCTION
CPC20220 - Certificate II in Construction Pathways
-
HOSPITALITY
SIT20416 - Certificate II in Kitchen Operations
Non-ATAR Courses
- Computing Applications
- Exploring Early Childhood
- Numeracy
- Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation Studies (SLSR)
- Work Studies
Year 12 Extension Courses
- English Extension 2
- History Extension
- Japanese Extension
- Mathematics Extension 2
- Music Extension
- Science Extension
At our school, students can take part in special religious education (SRE) classes. These classes are delivered by approved providers.
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 (if available at our school).
For more information, visit the department’s website or contact us.
At our school, we give the right support to help gifted learners to grow and do their best.
We notice these students early. They may learn quickly or show strong skills in creativity, leadership, problem solving or sport. We help them stay challenged with lessons and activities that match their strengths.
Learn more about how we support high potential and gifted learners.
Our learning approach
At Canley Vale High School, we use explicit teaching, which means we clearly explain what students are learning, why it is important, and how to do it step by step. This approach helps students understand new concepts by breaking them into manageable parts.
Learning at our school
Learning at our school is student-centred, inclusive and practical. We are committed to equity and access, supporting all learning styles and needs. Our teachers use proven strategies and participate in ongoing professional development to ensure they employ the best teaching practices.
Our learning approach includes:
- Real-world learning: hands-on tasks, group work and exploring new ideas
- Technology: integrating digital tools to enhance learning and build skills
- Flexible teaching: providing the right support for each student, with a focus on wellbeing
- Community connections: engaging with excursions, local programs and partnerships
Helping students progress
We support every student’s academic progress by:
- checking their progress and giving clear and timely feedback
- setting learning goals with each student
- giving extra help with personalised plans and support from specialist staff
- reporting on each student’s learning progress so parents and carers know how their child is doing
- providing targeted literacy and numeracy support in small groups
- making wellbeing part of everyday learning
- working with families to support learning at home and school
- helping students through transitions, like starting school or moving to a new stage of learning.
Learn more about additional learning support at our school.
Want to know more about our subjects?
We can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.
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.