Departments and Subjects
We offer a wide range of subject options
Choosing what to study at school is one of the pivotal decisions that students face. Such choices can greatly impact their academic success and their overall sense of fulfilment from their education. At our School, we understand the importance of this decision-making process and strive to provide students with a wide variety of subject options.
In Years 9 and 10, our students are immersed in a curriculum that includes essential core subjects. These mandatory courses lay a solid foundation for their academic development. Additionally, during these crucial years, students are given the exciting opportunity to delve into four option subjects of their choice. This empowers students to explore their passions and discover their areas of interest and talent.
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Our Departments
Our departments are led by passionate educators who deliver engaging, future-focused programs designed to challenge, inspire and support every learner. Across all subject areas, students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate confidently and grow in curiosity, creativity and character.
Click on each of the departments below to discover more.
Christian and Values Education
At St James’, Christian and Values Education (CAVE) encourages students in exploring faith, belief and spirituality through a curriculum designed to both interest and challenge them.
Click below to learn more about CAVE at St James’.
Careers and VET
At St James’, the Careers and VET Department supports students in exploring their future pathways by providing impartial, evidence-based information and guidance on university, vocational education and training (VET), apprenticeships, traineeships and employment opportunities.
For more information about our Careers department, including a list of Certificate courses offered on-site at St James, WACE information and more, click on the Careers Hub link below.
Creative Technologies
Through authentic, hands-on learning across Design and Technology, Visual Arts, and Graphics/Media, students develop both traditional techniques and an understanding of emerging technologies.
With an on-site Trade Centre, students benefit from industry-standard Creative Technologies facilities, including purpose-built Woodwork and Metalwork workshops, with a dedicated Mechatronics laboratory scheduled to open in late 2026. Learn more about our Trade Centre below.
Digital Technologies
At St James’, the Digital Technologies department equips students from Years 3 to 12 with the knowledge, skills and ethical awareness required to thrive in an increasingly digital society.
English
At St James’, the English department inspires a love of Language, Literature and communication by engaging students in meaningful and creative experiences.
Home Economics
At St James’, the Home Economics Department inspires students to become capable, confident and compassionate individuals who are prepared for life beyond the classroom.
Supported by our on-site Trade Centre, students engage in practical learning experiences across Hospitality and Food Studies, with a purpose-built commercial kitchen opening in late 2026.
Humanities
The Humanities department empowers students to question, investigate and understand the past and present so that they can actively shape the world of tomorrow.
Students with an interest in understanding people, societies, cultures and the world around them can further explore their passions through the following Humanities subjects at St James’:
- Modern History
- Politics and Law
- Geography
- Economics
- Accounting and Finance
Japanese
At St James’, the Japanese Department inspires students from Pre-Primary to Year 12 to develop functional proficiency in Japanese, foster intercultural understanding and grow as confident, resilient and globally minded individuals.
Mathematics
At St James’, Mathematics is about developing confident, capable problem-solvers. Students are encouraged to think critically, tackle challenges with perseverance and build a strong foundation of mathematical understanding that supports success across a wide range of future pathways.
Performing Arts
At St James’, the Performing Arts Department nurtures creativity, confidence and self-expression through a diverse range of learning experiences.
Students have the opportunity to develop their skills both in and beyond the classroom through music, drama and performance-based studies. Co-curricular opportunities include participation in the School’s annual musical production and play, as well as a variety of performances, concerts and events throughout the year, providing students with regular opportunities to showcase their talents and grow as performers.
Physical Education
At St James’, our Physical Education program promotes active lifestyles, personal growth and a commitment to lifelong health and wellbeing.
In addition to Curriculum Physical Education lessons, students have access to a wide range of sporting opportunities and events, including:
- Interhouse Competitions and Carnivals
- Volleyball Specialist Program
- Co-Curricular (Interschool) Sport
To learn more about these opportunities, click on the “Sport at St James'” link below.
Science
At St James’, the Science department inspires students by sparking curiosity and encouraging inquiry-based learning through engaging, hands-on experiences that build a strong passion for science and academic excellence. Students are empowered to become innovative problemsolvers who can connect their learning to real-world applications and future career pathways.
Students who have interests in particular scientific fields have the ability to study the below subjects at St James’.
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Human Biology
- Marine and Maritime Sciences
- Psychology
- Forensic Science