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Senior Secondary

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Years 10 to 12

The senior phase of learning begins in year 10 when students are encouraged to explore the options available to them and consider their future pathways. Subjects from Year 9 continue into Year 10 and can include recognised certificate courses which contribute to a QCE.

Year 11 and 12 students can select from a range of General and Applied subjects, as well as Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses.

Cairns School of Distance Education aims to maximise learning outcomes and broaden opportunities to prepare students for active and productive futures. We also provide alternative options for school-based students wishing to study subjects not offered by their school.

Provided that the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) requirements are met, Cairns School of Distance Education students who complete Year 12 are eligible to receive:

  • The Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
  • A senior statement showing all studies and results achieved by the end of year 12 which contribute to the awarding of the QCE.
  • An Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for eligible students who have studied a minimum of 4 General subjects and either 1 Applied subject or a Certificate III or higher.
  • Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA) for identified students.​

Asses​sment Policies

School assessment policies provide guidelines for teachers and expectations for all staff and students for assessment. These policies support schools in promoting equitable and credible outcomes, including academic integrity. Please refer to the ​Asse​ssment​ Policy​ page for more details.​​


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Last reviewed 28 July 2026
Last updated 28 July 2026