Senior School empowers students to explore their passions, excel in their academic pursuits and to value a strong sense of service for the betterment of the world around them.
With a broad and enriching curriculum, cutting-edge facilities, and a team of expert educators, the School fosters an environment where every student is supported to thrive and reach their full potential.
Senior School students are encouraged to develop a broad range of interests and to embody the spirit of the BGS motto, "Nil Sine Labore" – Nothing Without Hard Work. In addition to specialised academic pathways, students have access to a wide array of opportunities in sport, clubs, cultural activities, and wellbeing initiatives, enriching their educational journey through a holistic approach.
Whether it’s academic achievement, sporting success, artistic expression or community service, there is something here for everyone. I encourage you to explore all that our School has to offer and to imagine the possibilities that lie ahead.
- Mr Simon Conway, Head of Senior School
Years 9 and 10 Curriculum
In Years 9 and 10, all students undertake core studies in English, Mathematics, Science, and Physical Education.
Students then refine their learning pathway by selecting:
- Two subjects from: History, Geography, or a modern language (Chinese, French, or Japanese)
- Two subjects from the creative and design disciplines: Visual Art, Drama, Music, or Design
This balanced curriculum enables students to establish a solid academic foundation while exploring their individual interests and talents. Australian Curriculum Version 9.0 standards underpins all units of study, assessment and reporting.
Years 11 and 12 Curriculum
In Years 11 and 12, students decide on a course of study from a broad selection of subjects accredited and moderated by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA).
All students are required to study English and at least one Mathematics subject. In keeping with the School’s commitment to a liberal education, students are expected to maintain a balanced academic program throughout their senior years.
Students select six subjects from the following list:
- Arts and Design: Visual Arts, Design, Drama, Music
- English: English, Literature
- Humanities and Social Sciences: Economics, Geography, Ancient History, Modern History
- Languages: Chinese, French, Japanese
- Mathematics: General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Environmental Science
- Other: Physical Education, Engineering
This diverse subject offering allows students to tailor their studies to their strengths, interests, and future aspirations. All students are ATAR eligible with more than 99 per cent of BGS graduates proceeding directly to tertiary studies following their senior year.
Senior School Cocurricular
Students are encouraged to immerse themselves in a rich and varied cocurricular program that complements their academic journey. With opportunities available across all year levels, participation in cocurricular activities supports student wellbeing, strengthens academic outcomes, and fosters a deep sense of connection to the school community.
The program is structured around three core areas:
- Sport – encouraging teamwork, resilience and physical development. Boys of all abilities are encouraged to get involved, whether it be to compete in the Great Public Schools’ Association (GPS) competition or to simply try a new sport.
- The Arts – nurturing creativity through music, drama and visual arts.
- Clubs and activities – offering diverse experiences from debating to robotics.
Through these experiences, students are empowered to explore their passions, discover new interests and develop lifelong skills.
Engineering
Mathematical Methods
Mathematics
Ancient History
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Chinese
Design
Drama
Economics
English
Earth and Environmental Science
French
Geography
German
History
Japanese
Literature
Modern History
Music
Physical Education
Physics
Science
Specialist Mathematics
General Mathematics
Athene Club
Harlin House
Football
Gymnastics
Public Speaking
Astronomy
Basketball
Theatre
Chess
Cricket
Cross Country
Debating
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Enterprise Groups
STEM Racing
Fencing
Game Design
Greening Grammar
Lapidary Club
Maker Spaces
Model United Nations
Music
Public Purpose
Respect Group
Senior Robotics
Rowing
Rugby
Science Extension
STEAM Tank
Reconciliation Action Group
Swimming
Tennis
Titration
Track and Field
Volleyball
Grammar Coding
Student Wellbeing Program
The Student Wellbeing curriculum provides opportunities for the holistic development of all students with the goal of creating happy, confident and resilient lifelong learners who contribute to their communities.
At each year level, boys experience programs that nurture their social, ethical, physical, intellectual and emotional development. These programs offer relevant, age-specific experiences that enable students to engage in effective decision-making and problem-solving activities.
BGS is always ready to respond to the needs of boys in a changing world. Our contemporary Student Wellbeing curriculum uses a diverse range of teaching and learning approaches.
