Senior Learning Update
Mr Matt Byrne, Executive Director, Learning & Wellbeing

Senior Learning Update
Mr Matt Byrne, Executive Director, Learning & Wellbeing
Subject Selection Evening at Kinross Wolaroi School is more than a calendar event — it is a significant moment of reflection and forward planning for students and their families. Whether entering Stage 5 (Years 9–10) or Stage 6 (Years 11–12), the evening is designed to support thoughtful decision-making by connecting families directly with those who know our courses best — our teachers.
For students moving into Stage 5, the focus is on exploration. This is often the first opportunity for students to shape their own learning pathway, with an emphasis on choosing subjects that spark interest, build confidence, and develop a broad set of skills. Conversations with Faculty experts allow students to gain a clearer understanding of what different subjects look like in practice, and to begin uncovering new strengths and passions.
For those progressing into Stage 6, the conversation naturally shifts. Subject choices begin to carry greater academic significance, with implications for the HSC and future pathways. Here, Faculty experts play a pivotal role in guiding students to consider the balance between interest, demonstrated ability, and future opportunity — ensuring choices are both ambitious and well-informed.
This year’s event will be held on Thursday 25 June, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm in the DPA. The flexible format allows families to move at their own pace through a vibrant space of faculty displays. Teachers from across the school — including English, Mathematics, Science, TAS, Creative and Performing Arts, PDHPE, Agriculture, History and Social Sciences — will be available for informal, one-on-one conversations. These discussions are often the most valuable part of the evening, offering personalised advice grounded in both subject expertise and an understanding of each student’s learning journey.
Adding another dimension to the evening are our Industry Expert Panels, a popular feature that looks beyond the school gates. Drawing on members of the School's day and boarding community who have pursued diverse career pathways, these panels offer real-world perspectives on how subject choices can evolve into future opportunities. Their stories reinforce an important message: pathways are rarely linear, and there are many ways to achieve success.
Families will also have the opportunity to engage with University and TAFE representatives, who provide practical insights into post-school options. Positioned alongside faculty spaces, these representatives help students connect their subject choices with future study possibilities, adding valuable context to the decision-making process.
Also available on the evening will be Ben Ronald (Acting Director of Wellbeing) and Melinda Phillips from Compassionate Self Psychology and Coaching, who will be available to speak with families about our Visible Wellbeing and Compass programs. Compass, our internally developed wellbeing program, supports student engagement and personal growth, and this provides a valuable opportunity for families to learn more about how wellbeing is integrated into the Kinross Wolaroi experience.
In preparation for the evening, families are strongly encouraged to explore the Year 9 & Year 11 Elective Options pages on the Hub. These pages include course videos, detailed information about every subject, and guidance on patterns of study, providing an excellent foundation for informed conversations on the night.
Ultimately, Subject Selection Evening is about partnership — bringing together students, families, and academic staff to ensure every choice is informed, supported, and aligned with a positive and purposeful future.
Event Details