Subject Offerings

Explore our Senior School subjects

How do I choose my subjects at St Michael’s?  

Choosing subjects is one of the most significant decisions in your child's schooling — and it doesn't have to be daunting. Here's how to approach the process thoughtfully, and how St Michael's supports families every step of the way. 

Start with direction, not decisions 

Before picking individual subjects, step back and think about where your child wants to be at the end of Year 12 — or even further ahead. Subject selection works best when it flows backwards from a direction, even a broad one. "Something in health," "a creative career," or "I enjoy science and maths" is enough to start with. You don't need certainty. You need a compass. 

A step-by-step approach 

1. Talk honestly with your child about their strengths and genuine interests — not just what they're good at, but what they find meaningful and what makes time disappear.
2. Think in broad career areas rather than specific job titles. Many of the roles today's Year 7 students will hold don't yet exist — subjects should open doors, not close them.
3. Check prerequisites for university courses your child is considering. Medicine, engineering, law and architecture all have specific VCE requirements — it's worth knowing these early.
4. Balance subjects your child loves with subjects that build strong foundational skills. A mix tends to produce better results and leaves more options open at VTAC time.
5. Don't choose based on perceived ease. Students almost always perform best — and get more from school — in subjects they're genuinely engaged with, even if those subjects are challenging.
6. Speak with your child's Homeroom teacher, Year Level Coordinator or the school's Careers team. They know your child's academic profile and can give guidance tailored to their strengths. 

When does subject selection happen? 

Subject selection typically takes place in Term 3 each year for the following year. St Michael's runs dedicated subject information evenings, faculty open sessions and one-on-one subject counselling appointments to support families through the process. Preliminary selections can often be adjusted before the final program is confirmed — so if your child changes their mind early in the process, that's normal and manageable. 

A few practical things to keep in mind 

Not every subject listed in this guide will run every year — the program offered in any given year depends on the number of students who select each subject. The school makes every effort to accommodate individual preferences but reserves the right to vary the program based on demand. If a preferred subject cannot run, the school works closely with families to find the best alternative. Students and families are also welcome to contact the school directly to discuss any subject that isn't listed here — the school's offering evolves, and conversation is always welcome.