Our Curriculum

Courses - Junior

The school operates a vertical timetable of choice, across Years 8, 9 and 10.  In Year 8 Semester 1, foundation units are studied in set classes, whilst in Year 10 Semester 2, students study bridging units into their likely senior choices.

Care teachers track student choices to ensure students complete the requirements of each key learning area, and that students plan ahead so that they choose wisely.  The subject selection CD details semester modules, by subject and by level, with recommended pathways, prerequisites and assessment details.  Features of the choice model include embedded thinking skills strategies, integrated use of information technology, and progression by competency.

Students will choose nine options each semester.  Classes will proceed provided sufficient numbers enrol and room spaces and staff are available.

In this model of choice for a new enrolment, subject selection is important, and will require an interview with the school administration.  Parents and students should consult the CD very carefully before attending such an interview. 

Courses - Senior

The school timetable is built around students’ initial choices. All new students entering Year 11 and 12 must have an interview with one or both parents and the Principal or Deputy Principal to discuss subject selection. 

Authority Subjects.

Accounting, Ancient History, Art, Biological Science, Business Communication and Technologies, Chemistry, Dance, Drama, Earth Science, Economics, English, Film and Television, Geography, Graphics, Home Economics, Information Processing and Technology, Japanese, Legal Studies, Marine Studies, Mathematics A, Mathematics B, Mathematics C, History, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Study of Society, Information Technology Systems, Technology Studies.

Authority-registered Subjects.

Arts in Practice, Business (Clerical - Administration), Information & Communications Technology Studies, Consumer Maths, Early Childhood Studies, English Communication, Hospitality Practices, Industrial Graphics, Marine and Aquatic Practices, Leisure and Recreation, Senior Metalwork, Senior Woodwork.

Students and parents are encouraged to see the Guidance Officer about queries they may have regarding subject choice and career aspirations to ensure prerequisites for tertiary studies are met.  Further details are available in the Subject Selection Cd, or on the school’s website.

Queensland Core Skills Test   (QCS)

In August / September, Year 12 students sit for the statewide QCS test, consisting of a Writing Task, Short Response Item Test and two Multiple Choice papers, over two days.  The Queensland Studies Authority uses the statistical results of this examination to scale results in subjects across schools.  All Pioneer senior students undergo QCS preparation during Year 11 and 12 to make them test-wise for this important test.

Vocational Education

Senior students who are not OP eligible are expected to attend structured work placement twice per year in two-week blocks.  Through the Mackay Region School-Industry Links Scheme, vocational students are placed across the full spectrum of Mackay’s industries and businesses, to learn ‘on-the-job’.

Work placement incurs a MRSILS fee to the school of $25.00, which covers placement costs, a log book in which competencies learned on the job are signed off, and a work report from the employer.  The school subsidises $15.00 of this cost, leaving $10 payable by the student.

Seniors studying mainly Authority subjects can choose to undertake work placement during their September holidays by approaching the Vocational Education Co-ordinator.