Pre-VCE (Year 9 & 10)

Years 9 and 10 are an important stage of Secondary School, where students begin preparing for the opportunities and decisions that shape their senior years. As students become more independent, they are challenged to deepen their knowledge, take greater ownership of their learning and begin exploring the pathways that best suit their strengths, interests and future aspirations. Whether continuing at the College or joining ICOM during these years, students are supported to transition smoothly into a learning environment that prepares them for success in Years 11 and 12.

Year 9 & 10 Student Services

Throughout Years 9 and 10, the Student Services team works closely with students, families and teachers as students navigate an important stage of adolescence.

As students mature and face increasing academic, social and personal challenges, dedicated pastoral care, wellbeing programs and individual support help them build resilience, confidence and the independence needed to make informed decisions about their future pathways.

Year 9 & 10 Overview & Curriculum

Years 9 and 10 build on the strong academic foundations established in the earlier years of Secondary School while introducing greater independence and choice. Alongside the core curriculum, students begin selecting elective subjects that allow them to explore their interests, develop new skills and begin preparing for future senior secondary pathways.

As students progress through these years, they are supported in making informed subject selections that align with their strengths, interests and future aspirations, providing a smooth transition into Years 11 and 12.

English

Mathematics

Science

Humanities

Health & Physical Education

Digital Technologies

Quran Studies

Islamic Studies

Careers

Pastoral Care

Electives

Electives

Electives become an increasingly important part of the Years 9 and 10 experience, giving students greater choice in how they shape their learning. Alongside the core curriculum, all students select elective subjects that allow them to explore new areas of interest, develop practical skills and discover their strengths.

As students begin preparing for Years 11 and 12, electives also provide valuable opportunities to experience subjects and programs that support future pathways, helping them make informed decisions about their senior secondary studies.

ILIAS (Islamic Leadership and Arabic Studies)

ILIAS (Islamic Leadership and Arabic Studies) is a specialised Year 9 elective available to Mainstream students who wish to further develop their Islamic knowledge, leadership skills and Arabic language proficiency.

The program combines leadership development with formal Arabic studies, including the nationally recognised 10949NAT Certificate II in Applied Language (Arabic). As the natural progression into the ILEAD Diploma, ILIAS equips students with the knowledge, skills and foundations needed to continue their leadership journey from Year 10 through to Year 12.

SENIOR PATHWAY SPOTLIGHT

Diploma of Islamic Leadership

Starting from Year 10, students at Islamic College of Melbourne can undertake our exclusive ILEAD Diploma (22628VIC Diploma of Islamic Leadership) alongside their VCE studies.

Developed in collaboration with community leaders and organisations, the program is designed to meet the needs of the Australian Muslim community while preparing students for service grounded in knowledge, faith and leadership.

Students graduate with both their VCE and a nationally recognised Level 5 qualification, delivered within a dedicated learning environment that supports academic success alongside advanced Islamic studies.

Graduates are equipped for pathways in religious and community leadership, including roles such as Imams, Islamic educators, Muslim chaplains and community leaders.

Year 9 & 10 Points of Difference

As students progress through Years 9 and 10, they benefit from greater independence, increased subject choice and learning experiences that prepare them for the opportunities and decisions of senior secondary education.

Preparing for Senior Pathways

Years 9 and 10 are where future pathways begin to take shape. Students receive guidance and support as they explore the VCE, VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) and the IB® Diploma Programme, helping them make informed decisions before entering their senior years.

Pathways That Match Every Learner

Students follow one of three tailored learning pathways, Mainstream, SAP (Secondary Accelerated Program) or DEEP (Diverse Education Enrichment Program), ensuring learning is aligned with their strengths, interests and future aspirations while maintaining high expectations for every student.

Greater Choice Through Electives

A broad range of elective subjects allows students to explore new interests, develop practical skills and experience different areas of learning before selecting subjects for Years 11 and 12. Electives help students discover their strengths while preparing for future study and career pathways.

During Years 9 and 10, students begin preparing for senior secondary pathways at Islamic College of Melbourne, including VCE, VCE VM and the IB® Diploma Programme.

Students considering a specialised pathway can enter our exclusive DEEP or SAP pathways, with each program providing targeted preparation for Years 11 and 12.

PATHWAY PREPARATION

DEEP & VCE VM

Years 9 and 10 are when students begin preparing for the VCE Vocational Major pathway. Through DEEP, eligible students experience vocational learning, workplace experiences and VCE VM subjects, helping them make a confident transition into senior secondary education.

Learn More

PATHWAY PREPARATION

SAP & IB® Diploma Programme

For students pursuing the IB Diploma Programme, SAP provides a structured academic pathway through Years 9 and 10. Students undertake an enriched curriculum that develops the knowledge, independence and critical thinking expected in the IB.

Learn More

Start Your Secondary Journey

Years 9 and 10 are an ideal time for students to begin a new chapter at ICOM. With personalised support, continuity in learning and a welcoming school community, we help students settle quickly, build meaningful connections and continue their education with confidence.

Book a College Tour or learn more about Enrolment today.