Year 11 WACE High School Guide for Parents

Manoj Arachige -

Transitioning into Year 11 marks an important milestone in your child’s academic journey. The Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) curriculum introduces students to more specialized subjects, rigorous assessments, and a focus on preparing for the future—whether that involves university, TAFE, or the workforce.  

What to Expect in Year 11

Year 11 is often referred to as the foundation year for Year 12. It’s when students begin their journey toward achieving their WACE, which is the qualification awarded upon successful completion of senior secondary education in Western Australia. 

Here’s what you can expect: 

  • Increased Workload: Students are introduced to a more rigorous curriculum and longer study hours. 
  • Focused Subjects: They begin studying courses that align with their future goals, whether aiming for university entrance or vocational pathways. 
  • Independence and Responsibility: Students are encouraged to take greater ownership of their learning, which can be a challenging adjustment. 

What Does Your Child Learn? 

The WACE curriculum ensures that students develop a well-rounded skill set, offering both ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) and General courses. 

Core Requirements 

To meet WACE requirements, students must: 

  • Study a minimum of 20 units across Year 11 and Year 12. 
  • Complete at least four ATAR courses (if aiming for university entry) or a mix of General and Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses. 

Subjects Offered 

  • English: A compulsory subject, with options like ATAR English, Literature, or English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D). 
  • Mathematics: Students choose between Essentials, Applications, or Specialist levels based on their aptitude and future goals. 
  • Humanities and Sciences: Subjects like Chemistry, Physics, History, Economics, and Biology are available depending on the school. 
  • Electives: These may include Arts, Technologies, or Languages to cater to individual interests. 

UNITS

Students must complete a minimum of 20 Units Across Year 11 and Year 12:

  • These include a mix of Year 11 (unit 1 and 2) and Year 12 (unit 3 and 4) courses.

List A and List B Balance:

  • Students must complete at least one subject from List A (Arts, Languages, and Humanities) and at least one subject from List B (Mathematics, Science, and Technology) during their Year 11 and 12 studies.

ATAR Pathway Specifics:

  • To achieve an ATAR, students must complete four or more ATAR courses in Year 12.
  • These ATAR courses are drawn from both List A and List B, depending on their chosen pathway and interests.

How Are Assessments and Exams Structured? 

 Assessment Components 

  • School-based Assessments: These include tests, assignments, and practical tasks, contributing to a student's final grade. 
  • Examinations: Students studying ATAR courses will sit exams at the end of each semester. These exams often follow a similar format to the final Year 12 WACE exams. 

Impact on ATAR 

For students pursuing an ATAR pathway: 

  • Year 11 results do not directly contribute to their ATAR but are crucial for establishing a strong foundation in their subjects. 
  • Consistent performance in Year 11 prepares students for the rigours of Year 12, where results are directly used to calculate their ATAR. 

How You Can Support Your Child 

1. Encourage Effective Study Habits 

  • Help them create a study timetable that balances schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and relaxation. 
  • Provide a quiet, organized space for study. 

2. Stay Involved 

  • Attend parent-teacher interviews to understand their progress and challenges. 
  • Familiarize yourself with the WACE requirements and your child’s courses. 

3. Promote Well-being 

  • Encourage healthy sleep habits, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity. 
  • Be mindful of their mental health and provide emotional support during stressful periods. 

 4. Assist with Goal Setting 

  • Discuss their career aspirations and how their chosen subjects align with these goals. 
  • Break down long-term goals into manageable milestones. 

5. Provide Resources 

  • Invest in quality study guides and materials tailored to the WACE curriculum. 
  • Consider additional support, such as tutoring, to strengthen their understanding of challenging subjects. 

How KIS Academics Can Help?

At KIS Academics, we understand that every student’s journey is unique, and we’re here to support both parents and students in navigating these critical years. 

Why Choose KIS Academics? 

  1. Expert Tutors: Our tutors are top-performing graduates with in-depth knowledge of the WACE curriculum. 
  2. Personalized Learning: We tailor our teaching methods to suit your child’s learning style and goals. 
  3. Flexible Options: Choose from online or in-person tutoring sessions at a time that suits you. 
  4. Comprehensive Resources: Access study materials, practice exams, and feedback to boost your child’s performance.   

Final Thoughts

Year 11 is a challenging yet rewarding year for students as they transition into the senior phase of education. By staying informed, supportive, and proactive, parents can play a key role in helping their children navigate this journey with confidence. 

 Whether it’s understanding the WACE requirements, managing the workload, or preparing for ATAR, KIS Academics is here to guide you every step of the way. With the right resources and support, your child can achieve their goals and make the most of their high school experience. 

Want more personalized study guidance to help your child achieve their academic potential? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!

 

Written by KIS Academics Tutor for WACE, Simran Vaishnav. Simran is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine at Bond University and has received stellar reviews from her past KIS Academics students. You can view Simran's profile here and request her as a tutor.