Procedures for schools delivering the HSC program using a vertical model
Schools delivering the HSC program using a vertical model
A small number of schools use a vertical model (also referred to as a double time model or compressed system) to deliver the HSC program.
In this model, students’ study requirements for the HSC are usually completed over a conventional two-year period. However, both the Preliminary and HSC components of some or all Stage 6 courses (including the HSC examination) are completed in one calendar year rather than two.
Schools delivering the HSC program using a vertical model in any given year must ensure that the Board’s requirements are followed for all students undertaking Preliminary and HSC courses. These requirements include satisfactory completion of the mandatory curriculum requirements for Years 7–10, procedures in relation to ‘N’ determinations and applications for disability provisions. Schools must also ensure that they submit HSC assessment marks for all students undertaking each course at the school as a single group.
Schools delivering the HSC program using a vertical model and seeking to commence Preliminary courses prior to Day 1, Term 1 of Year 11 are required to have permission from the Board of Studies NSW.
Schools seeking permission should make a written application to the Board to commence Preliminary courses prior to Day 1, Term 1 of Year 11.
The application should contain the following:
- a covering letter from the school principal outlining the rationale for the school commencing Preliminary courses before Day 1, Term 1 of Year 11
- an outline of the two-year Preliminary and HSC program of study to be undertaken by students beginning Preliminary courses in the calendar year of the application
- an outline of tuition time for Preliminary and HSC courses under the delivery model. The outline should demonstrate clearly that the school’s delivery model does not give students any time advantage over students who commence Preliminary courses on Day 1, Term 1 of Year 11.
Relevant supporting documentation may be attached to the application, as schools consider appropriate.
Notification dates
Applications for 2013 are due by Monday 8 October 2012 (ie Day 1, Term 4) and should be directed to the Chief Executive, Office of the Board of Studies.