Human society and its environment

Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) is a key learning area in which both History and Geography are mandatory subjects from Kindergarten through to Year 10. This ensures that all students gain essential knowledge and skills about people, societies, and their physical environments.

In HSIE, students acquire specific historical and geographical concepts and skills. From Years 7 to 10 (Stages 4 to 5), students also have the opportunity to explore elective subjects that deepen their understanding of the diverse societies and environments in which they live.

HSIE covers a broad range of subjects where students engage in:

• Researching, gathering, and analysing information
• Questioning and making informed judgements
• Writing for various purposes and audiences

For senior students in Years 11 and 12, there is a wide selection of HSIE courses available, allowing students to specialise in areas of interest or potential career pathways. These courses include:

• Aboriginal Studies
• Ancient History
• Business Studies
• Economics
• Geography
• History Extension
• Legal Studies
• Modern History
• Society and Culture
• Studies of Religion

HSIE encourages students to develop critical thinking, inquiry skills, and a deeper appreciation of the complex world we live in, preparing them for further education and active citizenship.

Stage 5 Subject Selection 2026 (PDF 570MB)

Stage 6 Subject Selection 2026 (PDF 910KB)

Courses

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