Advanced HSC subjects to open to Newcastle public high school students

newy.com.au – Every NSW public high school will be able to give students access to advanced and extension HSC subjects from 2027, with the state government expanding virtual classes through Aurora College to students regardless of where they live.

The NSW Government says the new HSC Subject Guarantee will allow students in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and regional areas to study academically demanding courses through the state’s virtual public school. Until now, Aurora College’s HSC course access has been limited to students in remote and rural parts of NSW.

While senior students can choose from more than 120 HSC courses, not every school is able to offer every subject in face-to-face classes. The government says the expanded virtual model will connect more students with specialist teachers and give them access to courses that better match their abilities and ambitions.

The 11 HSC courses being made available virtually to all public school students for the first time are English Advanced, English Extension 1, English Extension 2, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2, Chemistry, Physics, Science Extension, Economics and History Extension.

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the change was aimed at removing barriers linked to location or school size.

“Every HSC student in a NSW public school should be able to choose the courses they want to study, setting themselves up for success, regardless of their postcode or which public school they attend,” Ms Car said.

“That’s why the Minns Labor Government is expanding access to advanced and extension HSC subjects, ensuring all students can reach their full potential at school.

“Our government will ensure every student can pursue their passion and strengths as we continue our work to build a stronger public education system.”

The expansion builds on the government’s Inspire High Potential and Gifted Education program, which is being rolled out across NSW public schools. All public schools are now expected to embed high potential and gifted education into their teaching, with each school’s Inspire offerings published on its website.

The government is also investing $100 million in new learning facilities at 33 high potential and gifted education partner schools across NSW and rolling out additional extension class opportunities.

Ms Car said the subject guarantee was being supported by broader work to rebuild the teaching workforce, with teacher vacancies now at a 12-year low following the government’s teacher wage rise and measures aimed at reducing workload.