“Developing initiative and capacity to be successful learners and participants in further education, the workforce, and society.”

Introduction

Linuwel offers a unique opportunity for students to undertake a Year 11-12 program which will prepare them for tertiary education, the workplace, and their future, without the pressure of high-stakes testing.

We provide a learning environment which supports students’ development of analytical, practical and creative thinking skills, and the capacity to be successful self-directed learners – capabilities which will meet the needs of the future. This focus on skill-development and depth of learning enables students to engage fully with their studies, free from the restrictions of exam-driven content.

The school has been registered with NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority) to provide this program, comprising:

  • Stage 6 (years 11/12) Board Developed Courses
  • School-developed Board Endorsed Courses which integrate Steiner curriculum elements such as Philosophy, and the Major Project in Year 12
  • A student-driven elective stream for self-directed study.

Students do not sit for the HSC, but receive a Senior Studies Certificate. With ever-increasing pathway options available for students wanting to undertake university studies, Linuwel’s program is an attractive alternative for Senior Studies, without the HSC. Many tertiary institutions have also shown great interest and support for enrolling students from Steiner schools, recognising the potential they display to succeed in their independent learning environment.

Students are required by NESA to study six Preliminary subjects of 120 timetabled hours each. At Linuwel, this includes:

  • English
  • Maths
  • Society and Culture
  • Philosophy or Earth and Environmental Science
  • Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (including camps)
  • Work Studies
  • Self Directed Learning (SDL)

SDL may be any of the following:

  • a Science/History/Geography/D&T/Visual Arts subject which the school will offer subject to demand and availability of a suitably qualified teacher

OR

  • a Distance Learning Subject (such as Agriculture, Economics, Languages, Legal Studies, etc) through the Camden Haven Distance Education program (additional cost);

OR

  • Self-Directed Learning (SDL) through other educational providers to access vocational or specific interest courses such as Open University subjects (additional cost), or courses through private providers.

Selection of the course of choice is made in consultation with Linuwel staff during the interview and enrolment process, to ensure the school is able to facilitate and support the student fully in their chosen studies.

Students are required by NESA to study five HSC subjects of 120 timetabled hours each. As study finishes at the end of Term 3 with Major Projects presented at the beginning of Term 4 in Year 12, each subject is timetabled for 5 lessons per week, allowing two afternoons each week for self-study time. The timetable includes:

  • English Standard/Advanced
  • Mathematics (Advanced)/Mathematics General
  • Society and Culture
  • Work Studies
  • Major Project, Portfolio and Presentation
  • Self Directed Learning (SDL) (either a continuation of the Year 11 choice, or students may select something new)

The Major Project

The Major Project is an individual creative task which requires students to research, develop, produce and present a work incorporating theoretical, artistic and practical components. The student captures and reflects on their learning and creative processes throughout the project’s evolution in the Portfolio comprising an academic dissertation related to their project, and a process journal.

At the beginning of Term 4, students present their finished works with reference to their dissertation and their process journal documenting the journey. The presentation is made to a gathering of the school community and a panel of assessors, and the highest standards are expected.

Examples of major projects completed in Steiner Schools have been:

  • writing, directing, and producing a dramatic piece;
  • building a tiny house;
  • an exhibition of a body of photography or other artistic works;
  • building a full-sized billiard table;
  • establishing and marketing of a biodynamic market garden;
  • overseas aid work;
  • writing and publication of a book of original poetry;
  • exploration of electromagnetism;
  • writing, performing and recording an album of original music;
  • video essay on media bias in political reporting;
  • design, fabrication, and showcasing of a collection of clothing.

Distance Education

A range of single units can be studied by distance through Camden Haven High School. This option enables students to:

  • select courses of interest which are unavailable at Linuwel;
  • have direct contact with their teachers by phone and online;
  • have teachers visit where possible;
  • attend study days, seminars and excursions to connect with other students in their course.

Enrolment in these subjects must be made via Linuwel’s Principal by mid-November. See the Camden Haven High School website for details, or contact the Linuwel Year 11 teacher for more detailed information.

Open University

This is a good option for students looking for experience studying at a high academic level in an area of specific interest. Some examples of courses studied by Linuwel Senior School students include Philosophy, Criminology, and Behavioural Sciences (Psychology). FEE HELP is available for domestic students, and after completion of 2 units, students may be offered a Commonwealth Supported Place, guaranteeing them a place in the university with whom they are studying.

For more information on courses available and enrolment dates or procedures, see the Open Universities guide, or contact the Year 11 teacher.

Other Providers

There are many commercial colleges and on-line providers offering an almost unlimited range of vocational or special interest courses. Doing such a course while at school means time and guidance is available to develop the skills necessary for successful completion of the chosen course.

University

Open University Pathway

After completion of Open University Courses, students can apply to Newcastle and other Universities through UAC. Students may complete first year at Newcastle University and transfer to other degree programs, with recognition of prior learning.

Portfolio Entry

The Year 12 Major Project and Portfolio can be accepted by Universities and TAFE and as satisfying the enrolment requirements for a range of courses, including those with a practical component. Completion of an Open University course can strengthen a portfolio entry application.

STAT Test

The Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) is an aptitude test run by UAC and accepted by most universities for entry into a range of courses. It assesses competencies considered important for successful tertiary study, and specific curriculum knowledge is not required.

Bridging Courses and NEWSTEP

Newstep is a one year, full-time foundation studies program for 18 to 20-year-olds, offered at Newcastle Uni. There are no fees and it is approved by Centrelink so students may be eligible for Youth Allowance. Some other universities offer similar programs.

TAFE Pathways

Most universities accept completion of a TAFE Cert 3 or 4 or Diploma for entry to specific degree programs, or students can complete a Tertiary Preparation Course (TPC) to obtain an ATAR.

Other Options

Vocational education and training, apprenticeships, internships, and entrepreneurial pursuits are all options after senior studies at Linuwel. The availability of Work Studies in the program facilitates the students developing networks and skills which are highly valued in the workforce.

Linuwel students have also chosen to go on exchange during Year 12, to broaden their horizons prior to choosing a post-school pathway, and the school enthusiastically supports and helps to facilitate this option.

Steiner Education endeavours to guide and nourish the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual development of each student through approaches and activities appropriate to their stage in the educational journey. In this environment, students build the capacity, confidence and love for learning which will serve them in a changing world, so they may become valuable contributors to society.

In this context, we offer students a broad and balanced curriculum in their senior years, with an emphasis on depth of understanding, critical and analytical thinking, real-world problem solving, independent learning, and leadership by example.

“Our highest endeavour must be to develop free human beings who are able of themselves to impart purpose and direction to their lives.”
~ Marie Steiner