Overview
Secondary provides an engaging educational journey where students develop critical thinking and independence.
Our comprehensive curriculum balances academic depth with practical skills development, preparing graduates for future pathways. Students engage with technology, participate in leadership opportunities, and contribute to community service projects that reinforce our values.
Through diverse extracurricular activities and specialised programs, teenagers discover their unique strengths while building character in a supportive Christian environment that celebrates individual achievement.
Secondary Education
Secondary at Border Christian College offers a personalised learning environment where meaningful teacher-student connections are prioritised.
Our hybrid compressed curriculum model allows students to spread HSC examinations over two years, reducing pressure while expanding subject diversity.
Students thrive through our Invictus Wellbeing Program, which builds resilience and independence through outdoor education experiences. With one-to-one device access, weekly chapel services, and opportunities in performing arts, sports and leadership, we equip students to become capable, resilient individuals of integrity committed to serving their community.
Subject Selection and Co-Curricular Options
Stage 4 (Years 7-8)
This is the beginning of secondary education where students study a broad curriculum including core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, and History. At Border Christian College, students also take Bible (Encounter Program), Agriculture and Food Technologies, Material and Engineering Technologies, Digital Technologies, Visual Arts, Music, Spanish, and PDHPE.
Stage 5 (Years 9-10)
During this stage, students continue with compulsory subjects while also selecting electives based on their interests. Compulsory subjects include Bible, English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, and History. Electives run over two years and may include Commerce, Food Technology, Industrial Technology, Music, Physical Activity and Sports Studies, and Visual Arts.
Stage 6 (Years 11-12)
This final stage prepares students for the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Border Christian College uses a compressed curriculum model where students complete Mathematics and English traditionally but choose two new electives each year. This allows students to spread their HSC examinations over two years, reducing examination pressure and providing greater subject diversity.
Subjects vary based on student interest and teacher availability. These can include: Ancient History, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, Investigating Science, Legal Studies, and PDHPE.
Each stage is designed to progressively develop students’ knowledge, skills, and readiness for further education or employment.
Biblical Studies
Our Biblical Studies program is a core curriculum subject, developed by Adventist Schools Australia and endorsed by NESA, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of biblical teachings throughout their educational journey.
Students engage with Biblical Studies as an essential part of their learning experience, exploring foundational Christian principles that complement their academic and personal development while offering meaningful opportunities for spiritual growth within our supportive environment.
Spanish
Stage 4 students learn Spanish as part of our commitment to global education. Learning a language enriches students’ cultural awareness and broadens their worldview through the exploration of Spanish-speaking cultures and customs.
Our Spanish curriculum focuses on building practical vocabulary and communication skills that students can confidently apply in real-world situations. The program seamlessly integrates with other subject areas, creating meaningful cross-curricular connections that enhance overall learning.
Distance Education & TVET
We offer students in Years 11 and 12 the opportunity to broaden their subject choices through Distance Education and TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Through a partnership with Finigan School of Distance Education, students can enrol in non-compressed senior courses that are not offered on campus, enabling them to pursue individual interests or career goals via a flexible, online learning model.
In addition, students may access TVET courses delivered by TAFE NSW (Albury campus). These programs provide practical, hands-on learning and nationally recognised qualifications while contributing towards their HSC. Courses vary depending on availability and student demand but may include Animal Care, Automotive, Community Services, and Electrotechnology.
For a current list of available courses, please contact the school office.
Student Leadership
At Border Christian College, we nurture tomorrow’s leaders through meaningful leadership opportunities that develop character and service. Our student leadership program includes High School Captains (nominated by both students and staff), Chapel Team members, and House Captains who represent our College at important events like the ANZAC Day march. Through these roles, students discover their leadership strengths, address areas for growth, and learn to guide others with compassion and integrity in a Christ-centered approach.
We are also proud of our Invictus School Leadership program which enables our Senior Students to develop their leadership style and skills, building confident young people ready to tackle the future.
Performing Arts
Our students are introduced to and actively encouraged to participate in music and drama from the very beginning of their educational journey at Border Christian College. This early exposure fosters a deep appreciation for the performing arts, which becomes an integral part of their holistic development.
Music plays a significant role in our school community, enriching our daily worship, weekly chapel programs, and formal curriculum. Through these diverse musical experiences, students develop not only their artistic talents but also enhance their spiritual connection, cultural understanding, and self-expression.
Our performing arts program is designed to provide students with numerous opportunities to discover and nurture their creative abilities in supportive and encouraging environments. Whether through classroom activities or school performances, students are given the platform to explore their artistic potential. These experiences are instrumental in helping students build confidence, develop collaborative skills, and experience the joy of artistic expression.
Sport
At Border Christian College, our sports program fosters the physical, social, and personal growth of every student through a diverse range of opportunities. Grounded in Christian values, we promote humility, teamwork, and integrity as students represent themselves, their families, and our College.
Students participate in a wide variety of sports, including athletics, swimming, basketball, soccer, futsal, mountain biking, padel ball, tennis, and ultimate frisbee, while also having the opportunity to engage in other emerging or seasonal activities. This variety supports the development of confidence, skill, and a lifelong love of physical activity.
For representative pathways, Primary students compete in Riverina Associated Schools (RAS) events, while Secondary students take part in the Border Independent Secondary Schools Association (BISSA). Selection is based on school performance or demonstrated ability, with progression opportunities to CIS representative teams.
As part of the NSW Combined Independent Schools (NSWCIS) network, our students also gain access to elite sporting competitions at both state and national levels.
Whether developing foundational skills or striving for excellence, our program is designed to help students grow and thrive, both on and off the field.
Outdoor Education
Our Outdoor Education program provides high school students with immersive experiences in God’s creation through annual school-wide camps. These carefully designed experiences build resilience, independence, and meaningful connections among students.
At the heart of our approach is the Invictus Wellbeing Program, (for students in years 7-10), which:
- Equips students with essential skills for lifelong wellbeing
- Teaches the importance of belonging and positive connections
- Develops emotional intelligence and relationship skills
- Integrates outdoor education, skill mastery, and service learning
Through this holistic approach, students engage in transformative experiences that encourage growth across all aspects of their lives. The program’s blend of challenging outdoor activities, personal development, and community service creates well-rounded individuals prepared to navigate life’s journey with confidence and purpose.
One-to-One Devices
The One-to-One Device program equips each student in Years 7-12 with a Chromebook, transforming their educational experience. This initiative boosts learning by providing seamless access to curriculum materials, research capabilities, and collaborative tools.
The program empowers students to develop essential digital literacy skills while cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. As they engage with various online resources and applications, students build the technological proficiency needed for success in today’s digital world.
By integrating Chromebooks into daily learning, we ensure our students are well-prepared for future academic and professional environments. This practical experience with digital tools helps them develop the technological fluency and adaptability required to thrive in an increasingly digital society.
Careers Education
Careers education at Border Christian College is a structured and progressive program that begins in Year 10 and continues through to Year 12. It is designed to support students in exploring pathways beyond school and making informed decisions about their future studies and careers. The school partners with the Albury Wodonga Careers Advisors Association in order to access key events and exciting opportunities.
In Year 10, students participate in a range of activities including Try-a-Trade Day, a local Careers Expo, and a work experience program, all of which help them gain insight into various industries and career options before selecting subjects for their senior years.
In Years 11 and 12, the program continues with targeted events such as a Health Forum and continued engagement with the local Careers Expo, providing students with ongoing opportunities to connect with professionals, employers, and tertiary education providers.
If you would like more information about our approach to behaviour management or our student code of conduct please refer to our Policies and Reports page.