Find out more about what your child will learn at our school.
The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) is responsible for the curriculum, Kindergarten to Year 12, for all NSW schools.
For the high school years, NESA develops syllabuses for all subjects in 8 key learning areas:
- creative arts
- English
- human society and its environment (HSIE)
- languages
- mathematics
- personal development, health and physical education (PDHPE)
- science
- technological and applied studies (TAS).
NSW schools also offer special religious education and special education in ethics via approved providers, where available.
Like all NSW schools, we have developed teaching and learning programs to suit our local context and the needs of our students.
To learn more about the curriculum in NSW, visit:
- NSW Department of Education – key learning areas
- NESA’s Parent Guide – Schooling in NSW which provides information about learning stages, key learning areas and syllabuses
- NSW Department of Education policy – Curriculum planning and programming, assessing and reporting to parents K–12.
Exams and assessments at Bass High School
Assessment submission guidelines
Ensuring that assignments are submitted on time and handled appropriately is crucial for academic success. Below are some important procedures and policies to keep in mind:
Completed assignments left at home
Students may hand in assignments at the school office until 3:30 p.m. on the due date. If you return home after school to retrieve an assignment, ensure it is brought to the office before this time. Request a member of the office staff to sign and date the assignment to verify it was submitted on the due date.
Teacher absences on due dates
In the event that your class teacher is absent, submit your assignment to the Head Teacher. The Head Teacher will record the submitted assignments and provide this record to the class teacher upon their return.
Lost assignments
If you lose the final draft of your assignment, immediately discuss the situation with your teacher and the Head Teacher. You must provide proof of your work by presenting rough notes and draft copies. This material will be considered to determine an appropriate grade.
Partially completed assignments
If you do not have a valid reason for seeking an extension, submit whatever you have completed, including any rough notes or drafts. This will be evaluated for assessment purposes.
Use of computers
Issues with computers, printers, or USB drives are not acceptable excuses for late assignments. Students should keep backup copies and have printed or handwritten drafts available.
Appeals
If you wish to question any decision regarding an assessable piece of work, you have the right to discuss the issue with your subject teacher, Head Teacher, and, if necessary, a member of the administration.
Failure to submit an assignment
Assignments and projects are a mandatory part of your studies. Failure to submit any material at all will negatively impact your results.
Note on plagiarism
Unacknowledged copying from other sources or students, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden. Ensure all work submitted is your own.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your assignments are managed effectively and fairly.
Download the Bass High student assignment guidelines (PDF 49KB)
Exam preparation
Before an exam
Organise your time
Create a timetable for homework, study, rest, and relaxation. In the 3-4 weeks before the exam, study 1 hour daily for each subject.
Reduce social activities
Focus on exam prep over social activities in the weeks leading up to the exam for better results.
Study at the right time
Study when you feel most alert and motivated. This varies by person.
Find a good spot to study
Choose a quiet, well-lit, uncluttered place. Occasionally change your study location for a fresh environment.
Keep a regular routine
Maintain consistent sleep (7-8 hours) and meal schedules for maximum efficiency.
Take regular short breaks
Take breaks every 45 minutes to maintain effectiveness, considering natural alertness cycles.
Avoid similar subjects on the same day
Study different subjects on the same day to avoid confusion.
Start early
Begin preparation early to build confidence and understanding. Avoid last-minute cramming.
Get all notes and handouts
Organize all subject notes and handouts. Ask your teacher for any missing materials.
Practise regularly
Practice with past exams to understand structure, question formats, and time management.
Manage nervousness
A moderate level of nervousness can enhance performance. If overly anxious, find a quiet spot to calm yourself.
Have a plan
Know the exam format and have a strategy for tackling sections or questions first.
During the Examinations
Use reading time
Use reading time to calm jitters and focus. Carefully read longer questions.
Start with what you know
Begin with familiar questions to build confidence and possibly trigger answers to more difficult questions.
Download the Bass High exam preparation guide (PDF 108KB)