Secondary School
In the Secondary School, we provide a caring environment for our students to develop academically, socially and emotionally. Every student is challenged and supported in their development as young men and women of character, leaders now and in the future.
Simon Edgar
Head of Secondary School
Welcome to Secondary School
Students start each school day in their Tutor Group, which is organised on a vertical age level, encouraging students to interact with a range of age groups from Years 7 to 12. We find that this provides a highly positive way to start the school day and it creates a supportive learning environment. Students then attend their classes within their year level, with extension or support work provided as necessary.
We offer an exciting and extensive range of meaningful educational experiences to students, and actively encourage them to get involved in the many facets of the co-curricular program of the College.
Our students continue to distinguish themselves with their high standards of work ethic, behaviour and manners across the spectrum. In a relatively short space of time, the Secondary School has developed a strong reputation for providing a caring, respectful and supportive learning culture. It is recognised on a state, national and international scale, as a leading educational institution that consistently achieves exemplary academic and co-curricular results. The College motto of 'Excellence, Care and Commitment' is clearly evident in all aspects of College and is entrenched in its culture.
As young people develop into adolescence, their need for care and support from teachers does not diminish. Teachers endeavour to work closely with students and families to monitor students’ personal and academic growth.
I would like to offer you an open invitation to come and see our College for yourself - it really is the only way to truly understand the pastoral care and educational environment that we offer and the amazing opportunities open for your children to take part in.
To arrange a tour of our College campus in action, please telephone Mrs Karen Milburn on (07) 5594 7947, or email her at KMilburn@abpat.qld.edu.au.
We hope to welcome you soon!
Learning in Secondary School
One of the major goals for students in Years 7 - 10 is to continue to develop a positive work ethic both in the classroom and in home study.
Subjects Year 7 - 10
Students in Years 7 - 10 study all of the subjects, as designated by the Australian curriculum. Students are immersed in the 21st Century learning skills that have been universally recognised as being a vital component for success. These have been incorporated into the General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum and include Critical and Creative Thinking, Digital Literacy, Ethical Understanding, Intercultural Understanding, Literacy, Numeracy and Personal and Social capabilities.
English
Mathematics
Social Sciences (History, Geography, Economics and Civics and Citizenship)
Health and Physical Education
Arts (Drama, Dance, Visual Art, Music)
Technologies (Digital Technologies, Design Technologies, Food Technology, Engineering Principles and Systems and Media Arts)
Science
Language (Japanese and Spanish)
At the end of Year 10, students choose six subjects they would like to study more deeply in Years 11 and 12.
Subjects Years 11 - 12
It is expected that by the end of Year 10, students will have developed the required work ethic and skills to make best use of the opportunities in Secondary years. Continuing enrolment relies on a demonstrated positive approach to study, whether the student is intending tertiary entry or a vocational pathway.
Students in Years 11 - 12 are required to study 6 subjects, including English and Mathematics. Please note, elective subject options are based upon meeting required numbers and classes.
Electives offered:
General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Essential Mathematics*
English, Essential English*, Literature
Biology, Chemistry, Marine Science, Physics and Psychology
Accounting, Business, Economics, Ancient History, Modern History, Legal Studies
Japanese, Spanish
Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Art
Health, Physical Education
Design, Digital Solutions, Engineering, Film, Television and New Media, Hospitality Practices*
In Year 12 only, English and Literature Extension and Music Extension may be offered.
*Essential Mathematics, Essential English and Hospitality Practices are Applied Subjects. Students may have study more than one of these, but only one will count towards an ATAR calculation.
Pathways for Secondary Years
As part of the College’s focus on the needs of individual students, a number of pathways open up in the Secondary Years 10 - 12.
A straight academic program.
A combination of academic subjects with one vocational subject.
An accelerated program in one or more subjects, where students can complete Year 12 earlier (this usually follows from an accelerated program in earlier years).
The Honours Program for students interested in more challenging academic learning – this includes additional topics, mentoring and personal projects.
University subjects after early completion of Year 12, and some in conjunction with Senior subjects that offer University credit.
Full vocational focus with Work experience, student traineeships and apprenticeships.
Modified Secondary Year programs for high performing students in sport or cultural activities.
Enrichment Activities
At our College, academic studies are enhanced by a wide range of additional activities. These encompass workshops led by visiting experts, competitions, expos, field trips, excursions, debates, public speaking opportunities, musical and dramatic performances and other activities that may be introduced periodically.
Reporting to Parents
The new academic year commences at the start of Term 4. Towards the end of Term 1 - Parent/Teacher interviews are scheduled.
End of Term 1 - A full written report on Semester One.
During Term 3 - Parent teacher interviews are again scheduled.
End of Term 3 - A full written report on Semester Two is sent home.
Parents are always welcome to make an appointment with a teacher to discuss their child’s progress at other times. The Student Diary is an important means of communication between the College and home. Parents are asked to check their child's diary each evening.
Year 9 (2026) Subject Selection Handbook
Academic Excellence
Our Secondary School offers a wide range of academic opportunities that challenge and inspire students to reach their full potential. With a focus on core subjects and specialised electives, we encourage students to pursue their passions while building a solid foundation in essential disciplines.
A.B. Paterson College acknowledges the Kombumerri People as Traditional Custodians of the land, sea, waterways, and skies in which we learn and play. We also pay our respects to elders, past, present, and emerging, and recognise their continuing connection to country and ways of learning.