The study of mathematics is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
Mathematics Syllabus structures
The syllabus structure illustrates the important role Working mathematically plays across all areas of mathematics and reflects the strengthened connections between concepts. Working mathematically has been embedded in the outcomes, content and examples of the syllabus.
Mathematics K–10 outcomes and their related content are organised in the strands:
- number and algebra
- measurement and geometry
- statistics and probability.
In Year 11 and 12, the study of mathematics remains optional. Courses offered include:
- Mathematics Extension 2 (Year 12 only)
- Mathematics Extension 1
- Mathematics Advanced
- Mathematics Standard 2
- Mathematics Standard 1 (The optional HSC examination must be completed to gain an ATAR for the 2025 HSC)
- Numeracy CEC
- Mathematics Life Skills.
Stage 4 and 5 Learning
We have begun the implementation of the new Core–Path structure for learning in Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) and Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10).
Core – Path Structure
This new Core-Paths structure is designed to encourage aspiration in students and provide the flexibility needed to enable teachers to create pathways for students working towards Stage 6.
The structure is intended to extend students as far along the continuum of learning as possible and provide solid foundations for the highest levels of student achievement. The structure allows for a diverse range of endpoints up to the end of Stage 5 as well as the opportunity for early access to Stage 5 content in Stage 4.
As such students are streamed from Year 8 to allow staff to better direct the progress of students along this continuum of learning, providing more time for those students who require greater support to meet the Core outcomes, while allowing those with strong mathematical skills to extend along the Paths. All classes will provide extension activities to allow access to more challenging content, and ongoing assessment of student progress will allow for student movement between classes. This will permit, either greater access to Core and Path content, or greater time to engage with the Core as per the needs of each student.
The mathematics staff will encourage all students to continue to extend themselves towards demonstrating achievement in as many Stage 5 Core and Path outcomes as possible.
Pathways for learning in Stage 6:
Success with the Core outcomes provides students with the foundation for engagement with Mathematics Standard 2 in Stage 6.
Students who require ongoing support in completing all Stage 5 Core outcomes should consider either Mathematics Standard 1 or the Numeracy CEC course in Stage 6.
Students who successfully complete the Core and have progressed along the Paths will have the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in the higher levels of Mathematics. The depth of engagement and success with Path content will guide student choice between Standard 2, Advanced, Extension 1 and Extension 2 Stage 6 courses.
Stage 6 Learning
NOTE: 2025 will be the final year that the following course descriptions apply. 2026 will see the implementation of the new syllabus, however, the new course descriptions will remain similar to those below.
Year 11 and 12 Standard Mathematics
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in working mathematically, improve their skills to solve problems relating to their present and future needs, and improve their understanding of how to communicate in a concise and systematic manner. The Mathematics Standard Year 11 course is a common course for all students studying the Mathematics Standard Syllabus.
In year 12, the course splits into the Standard 1 and Standard 2 pathways. Both pathways in 2025 will contribute to ATAR calculations.
Mathematics Standard 1 improves numeracy by building student confidence and making mathematics meaningful. Numerate students can manage situations or solve problems in everyday life, work or further learning. See “Pathways for learning in Stage 6” from above to determine the suitability of this course for your child.
In Mathematics Standard 2 students extend their mathematical skills beyond Stage 5 without the in-depth knowledge of higher mathematics that the study of calculus would provide. This course prepares students for a wide range of educational and employment aspirations, including continuing their studies at a tertiary level. See “Pathways for learning in Stage 6” from above to determine the suitability of this course for your child.
Year 11 and 12 Advanced Mathematics
The Mathematics Advanced course is a calculus-based course focused on developing student awareness of mathematics as a unique and powerful way of viewing the world to investigate order, relation, pattern, uncertainty and generality. The course provides students with the opportunity to develop ways of thinking in which problems are explored through observation, reflection and reasoning.
See “Pathways for learning in Stage 6” from above to determine the suitability of this course for your child.
Year 11 and 12 Extension 1 Mathematics
Mathematics Extension 1 is focused on enabling students to develop a thorough understanding of and competence in further aspects of mathematics. The course provides opportunities to develop rigorous mathematical arguments and proofs, and to use mathematical models more extensively.
The Mathematics Extension 1 course must be studied in conjunction with the Mathematics Advanced course throughout both Year 11 and 12.
Year 12 Extension 2 Mathematics
Mathematics Extension 2 provides students with the opportunity to develop strong mathematical manipulative skills and a deep understanding of the fundamental ideas of algebra and calculus, as well as an appreciation of mathematics as an activity with its own intrinsic value, involving invention, intuition and exploration. Mathematics Extension 2 extends students’ conceptual knowledge and understanding through exploration of new areas of mathematics not previously seen.
The Mathematics Extension 2 course must be studied in conjunction with both the Advanced and Extension 1 courses throughout 12.