Community and Family Studies is designed to develop in each student an understanding of the diverse nature and interdependence of individuals, families and communities, within Australian society. The course enables students to plan and manage resources effectively in order to address contemporary issues facing families, individuals and communities.
In the Year 11 Course students study the concepts of wellbeing, needs and wants, resources, values, goal setting, communication, decision making and personal management. Students explore the importance of building positive interpersonal relationships in order to promote a sense of belonging among individuals, families and social groups. Students examine how constant change challenges families and communities, and how both informal and formal support available can assist them to manage the change effectively.
In the Year 12 course, each module builds upon the Year 11 course content studied. It focuses on the process of inquiry and research allowing students to pursue an area of interest in an Independent Research Project. It explores four specific groups within the community, with a detailed investigation of two groups. It analyses factors that affect parenting and caring roles. As well as an option module being studied as determined by the classroom teacher.
As a part of the HSC internal assessment students are required to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP). The focus of the Independent Research Project should be related to the course content of one or more of the following areas: individuals, groups, families, communities, resource management.