Orana Senior College (Years 11 & 12)

Class 11-12 Handbook  | Exploring topics in Class 12 presentations |  History  |  Why Class 11 and 12?

Orana launched its first Year 11 in 2001 with Year 12 following in 2002. A comprehensive Steiner-based curriculum has been developed at Orana School. A feature of this curriculum is a broad and integrative approach to the senior college subjects. The emphasis is on developing a well-rounded student with balanced exposure to arts and sciences, together with a range of electives.

Orana School received approval from the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies registration for its Year 11 and 12 Senior College courses programme, and has received formal registration of the Senior College by the ACT Non-Government Schools Office.

The culmination of Steiner Education is realised at the end of the 12th year when each student selects, develops, and documents a significant research or activity based "Year 12 Project". The students present this work to a gathering of the school community, representatives of the Department of Education, neighbouring schools, university moderators and others. This culminating project is an opportunity given to students as they complete secondary Steiner education which strives to encourage freedom of spirit through developing independent, interested and articulate individuals.

Normally after completing the 12th Class in a Waldorf or Steiner School, students take a further year to sit Matriculation or University entrance examinations. At Orana School, however, students can complete their studies at the end of Year 12 and have a University Entrance Index (UAI) score if they have chosen that option. A UAI score can be used in enrolment applications to any tertiary educational institution in Australia.

Full details about the Orana Senior College program are contained in the Senior College Handbook.

Exploring topics in Class 12 presentations

On a special weekend in Term 4, we see the culmination of a year's work for the class. After choosing a particular area of study at the end of Class 11, the students work on it throughout Class 12  in various ways. Some explore their topics through different forms of the arts - painting, print making, sculpture, movement, music making, others use their hands to build useful objects (guitars, tables, nesting boxes and skateboard ramps!), while others has investigate the commercial world of a specific industry. 

Each year, Class 12 students are able to offer us something in a way we have not seen before. It is this aspect of the projects that gives them their unique quality. The projects can be demanding, of course. Students must carry out research into their topic and incorporate that into the body of a thesis. They must also have demonstrated that they have worked independently and consistently over the year to complete the goals they set themselves. Lastly, they must represent their work to the community in their oral presentation - for some, a daunting task! In Term 4, the whole community is invited to come and hear them speak about their work. For all students, it is a wonderful opportunity to see what awaits them in Class 12. For parents and teachers, it is a chance to be present as Class 12 share the fruits of their labour.

Tax file number

To assist secondary students to obtain a Tax File Number (TFN), students can choose to complete an application through the school. Students may need a TFN to apply for youth allowance or for part-time or holiday employment. This is a voluntary program and is being offered as a service to make it easier for students to obtain a TFN. Application forms are available from the Office, or alternatively if you would like any more information, please contact the Tax Office on 13 28 61.

Senior College students in the Resource Centre, Forest Campus

Senior College Resource Centre, Forest Campus