Pathways

Transition to High School: Supporting the Transition from Stage 3 to Stage 4 (Year 6 to 7)

At Denison College, the transition from Stage 3 to Stage 4 marks the important entry into high school, supported by our iXplore program. This initiative offers Stage 3 primary school students early exposure to high school subjects, assessments, and peer support activities designed to ease this critical change. Collaborative partnerships with local primary schools ensure tailored support through shared academic and wellbeing information, smoothing the move to Year 7.

Transition days incorporate peer leaders who play a pivotal role in fostering belonging, resilience, and social confidence. The iXplore transition program is inclusive of all students and thus provides opportunities for every student irrespective of their experiences in primary school. The transition program is extensive and planned to meet the needs of students moving across a critical educational boundary, leading to a confident start to secondary education.

High school transition includes several streams to support all students. While every student participates in the iXplore transition program, additional transition support is offered for Aboriginal students and students with additional needs. These programs provide extended opportunities to help students connect with the school and build relationships with key staff who will support their educational journey into the future. Note: The iXtend program for high-performing and gifted Year 7 students is coordinated by college Head Teachers. More information about iXtend can be found within the Learning and Support tab under High Potential and Gifted Education

Future Pathways: Supporting the Transition from Stage 4 to Stage 5 (Year 8 to 9)

As students transition from Stage 4 to Stage 5, they have an opportunity for the first time to include subjects of interest in their pattern of study. Future Pathways is a program that opens the door to greater curriculum choice but also guides students in responsibly setting academic and career goals aligned with their strengths and interests.

Through data-informed subject selection interviews involving students and parents, this program empowers personalised learning journeys, increasing motivation and engagement. The collaborative approach enhances student ownership of their studies and nurtures aspirations, underpinning success in Stage 5 studies and beyond. Open communication with families strengthens partnerships and supports students’ social-emotional needs during this formative period.

2026-2027 Bathurst High Campus Future Pathways Subject Selection Booklet

Future Directions: Supporting the Transition from Stage 5 to Stage 6 (Year 10 to 11)

The Future Directions program supports Year 10 students through personalised subject selection interviews, information evenings, and collaborations with universities, training providers, and employers. This tailored guidance involves an evaluation of Future Pathways experiences and an in-depth exploration of individual student abilities and interests, thereby assisting students and their families in making well-informed decisions regarding senior subjects and post-school pathways. Denison College offers more than 50 Stage 6 subjects across both campuses, complemented by opportunities to engage with a diverse range of external providers, enabling students to design personalised study programs that align with their aspirations. The program underscores the importance of student agency, fostering proactive engagement in academic and career planning. By providing clear pathways and comprehensive support, Denison College empowers students to confidently pursue further education, vocational training, employment, or alternative options, thus establishing a robust foundation regardless of the student’s post-school pathway.

2026-2027 Future Directions Subject Selection Booklet

Hello HSC: Supporting the Transition from Preliminary to HSC Courses

Denison College offers a centralised resource that provides you and your child with all the information needed about the HSC, including academic support, wellbeing resources and access to expert staff. An information night and comprehensive student interview process at the start of Term 4 complements information packages to help students navigate their HSC journey, covering important dates, assessment requirements and disability provisions.

Students undertake workshops focusing on study skills, exam preparation techniques, and stress management strategies. Ongoing support through programs such as Hello HSC fosters strong relationships among teachers, students, and parents, boosting engagement and wellbeing. This structured, inclusive framework reflects our commitment to personalised, high quality education at every stage.

2025-2026 Bathurst High Campus HSC Assessment Booklet