Global Studies

The Global Studies Course in Years 9 and 10 is designed to build students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills while fostering values and attitudes essential for engaging with contemporary global issues. It aims to prepare students to be informed, active global citizens in an ever-changing world. Through the exploration of environmental, political, economic, and social geographical processes, students investigate global challenges from multiple perspectives. The course encourages critical thinking, inquiry, and problem-solving.

Students develop a strong foundation for future study in the HSC, IB, and beyond, with an emphasis on research methodology and analytical writing. A wide variety of contemporary case studies help students add depth to their understanding and expression. Practical skills are also developed, including GIS and ICT use, as well as oral presentation techniques.

The environmental component includes topics such as oceanography, extreme environments, and a geographical transect across Africa. In Economic and Political Geography, students examine global supply chains, including issues such as slave labour in the West African cacao industry, and political dynamics in neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and China. They also explore the roots and consequences of global conflict and political instability.

Social and Contemporary issues include a critical look at the global sports industry, its economic and political dimensions, and the darker sides of globalisation such as illicit trade and human trafficking. Students are encouraged to reflect on the role of global citizenship and how individual and collective actions can address these global challenges.

As a subject that bridges science and the humanities, it equips students with the knowledge and skills to engage with the world meaningfully and make informed decisions about its future. With a strong emphasis on research and real-world application, students develop skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

· Fieldwork

Available to Elective students only, fieldwork at an appropriate site will enable students to investigate themes raised in the classroom and gain practical experience in the field. With the incorporation of current technology, the boys will have a field experience like no other – specifically, snorkelling at Shelly Beach in Manly and visiting the Sydney Cricket Grounds and Stockton Sand Dunes.

· Contemporary Geographic Issues

With the aim of developing the student’s ‘world view’, frequent analysis of the issues making the news as explored as ‘Reactive Geography’ will be a feature of the course.

· Perspectives

This world view will be further enhanced by “seeing things through others’ eyes”. This is highlighted by their Independent Research Project on conflict and the concepts of global citizenship.