Freshwater Secondary School
A Cairns High Schools Unlike Any Other
Freshwater Christian College is more than just a Cairns Secondary School; it’s a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to become lifelong learners, driven by the timeless principles of Christian values.
Dedicated to Success, Committed to Excellence
Over the six years in our Cairns Secondary School at Freshwater , we work with our students to develop and challenge them academically, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually, preparing them for their life beyond school.
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Our Secondary School Curriculum
The curriculum at Freshwater Christian College becomes increasingly specialised from Year 7 to Year 12. It blends traditional academic subjects with modern perspectives and technologies. Alongside classroom learning, students engage with diverse co-curricular programs and pathways.
Digital Learning
Beginning in Year 7, our secondary school students are issued with a laptop, providing access to an engaging and innovative educational environment that blends explicit teaching and inquiry-based learning with quality online learning experiences. Students are explicitly taught how to use technology to support their learning and digital wellbeing.
Student Centred Education
We maximise the learning experience of each student by utilising learning data and performance-tracking methodologies. This ensures that each student progresses relative to their potential. As students progress throughout their secondary learning, regular conferencing with staff and feedback allow students to accurately set goals and plan for their pathways beyond secondary school
Engagement in Co-Curricular Activities
Students participate in a wide variety of Co-Curricular activities starting in Year 7. These activities allow students to actively apply social and emotional skills (such as resilience, compassion and collaboration) to real-life contexts (such as camping, sports, rafting, and drama). More details of these activities can be found on our Co-Curricular Page.
At Freshwater Christian College, we believe in equipping young minds not just for success in their academic pursuits but also for a fulfilling life grounded in faith and moral character.
Years 7 – 10
Junior Secondary School
Freshwater Junior Secondary School offers a learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, and academic risk-taking.
Our curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all students and enriched through differentiated learning practices in the classroom.
Year 7 - 8 Subjects
Core subjects all Junior Secondary students will participate in:
- English
- Mathematics
- History and Geography
- Science
- Japanese
- Health and Physical Education
Rotational subjects include:
- Art
- Digital Technologies
- Design and Technology
- Drama
- Music
- Food and Textiles Technology
Non-assessable subjects:
- Chapel
- Personal Growth program
- Christian Living
- Equip
- Literacy
Year 9 - 10 Subjects
The course provides the core subjects required to lead on to both Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) senior subjects.
Students are required to complete 5 core subjects:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History/Geography
- Health and Physical Education
Electives:
Students also select three elective subjects:
- Business, Economics and Legal Studies
- Food Technology
- Digital Technologies
- Industrial Design & Technology
- Design
- Music
- Drama
- Japanese
- Art
Non-assessable subjects
- Chapel
- Personal Growth Program
- Christian Living
- Equip
- Literacy (Year 9) and Careers (Year 10)
Years 7 – 10
Junior Secondary School
Freshwater Junior Secondary School offers a learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, and academic risk-taking.
Our curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of all students and enriched through differentiated learning practices in the classroom.
Year 7 - 8 Subjects
Core subjects all Junior Secondary students will participate in:
- English
- Mathematics
- History and Geography
- Science
- Japanese
- Health and Physical Education
Rotational subjects include:
- Art
- Digital Technologies
- Design and Technology
- Drama
- Music
- Food and Textiles Technology
Non-assessable subjects:
- Chapel
- Personal Growth program
- Christian Living
- Equip
- Literacy
Year 9 - 10 Subjects
The course provides the core subjects required to lead on to both Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) senior subjects.
Students are required to complete 5 core subjects:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History/Geography
- Health and Physical Education
Electives:
Students also select three elective subjects:
- Business, Economics and Legal Studies
- Food Technology
- Digital Technologies
- Industrial Design & Technology
- Design
- Music
- Drama
- Japanese
- Art
Non-assessable subjects
- Chapel
- Personal Growth Program
- Christian Living
- Equip
- Literacy (Year 9) and Careers (Year 10)
Years 11- 12
Senior Secondary School
In Years 11 and 12, students are offered a full range of academic and/or vocational programs to set them up for their careers and life beyond school. It is envisioned that all students will obtain their QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education) and many will also receive an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank).
Senior Year Course Overview
Freshwater Christian College offers a broad selection of academic and vocational subjects.
Students in the Senior Phase of Learning have the opportunity to select 6 subjects. Selections must be made up of:
- English (Essential* or General)
- Mathematics (Essential*, General, Mathematics Methods) + another 4 subjects comprising of:
- General Subjects
- Applied Subjects
- Certificate (II, III, Traineeship/Apprenticeship)
- Start University Now courses (from CQU, JCU or other available universities)
All Year 11 and 12 students will also study:
- Christian Studies
- Leadership Skills
- Equip
- Personal Growth Program
- Attend Chapel and Assembly. discover the best Cairns High School and Cairns Secondary School at Freshwater Christian College
Year 11 and 12 Subjects
Senior Subjects on Offer
- English (General and Essential)
- Health and Physical Education
- Modern and Ancient History
- Business
- Legal Studies
- Languages
- Mathematics (Essential, General, Math Methods and Specialist Maths)
- Sciences (Physics, Chemistry and Biology)
- Technologies (Industrial Technology Skills and Design)
- The Arts (Drama, Music, Visual Art and Visual Arts in Practice)
- Vocational Education Based on Premises:
- SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness + SIS20122 Certificate II in Sport and Recreation
- CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Traineeship)
- CUA31120 Certificate III in Visual Arts
TAFE NOTE: Vocational Education is not available to International students studying on subclass 500
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Cairns High Schools Student Testimonials freshwater christian college
“The community and friends you make are fantastic and the education taught is great as well.”
– Year 12 Graduate
“The teachers care about your education and it is a loving community. The teachers were very good and supportive. There’s always someone to talk to.”
– Year 12 Graduate
“I love the community Freshwater shows and the compassion for inclusion.”
– Year 12 Graduate
“I was raised at FCC and I feel that it has given me a good basis for my future.”
– Year 12 Graduate
Learn More About Our Cains High School
Want to learn more? Explore our FAQs to get answers to common questions about our secondary and high school programs and how they benefit your child.
Is Freshwater Christian College one of the best Cairns high schools?
Yes, Freshwater Christian College is one of the leading Cairns high schools, offering a strong academic program combined with Christian values. Our schools provides a supportive learning environment, modern facilities, and a range of extracurricular opportunities for students from Year 7 to Year 12.
Do Cairns high schools like Freshwater Christian College offer extracurricular activities?
Yes! Freshwater Christian College has a strong extracurricular program, including sports, music, drama, and student leadership opportunities. The school participates in Cairns school sport competitions and offers a variety of clubs and activities to help students grow outside the classroom.
How does Freshwater Christian College compare to other Cairns high schools?
Unlike many other Cairns high schools, Freshwater Christian College offers a personalised learning approach with small class sizes, faith-based education, and strong pastoral care. The school also provides university pathways, vocational training, and leadership development programs.
Does Freshwater Christian College offer scholarships like other Cairns high schools?
Yes, Freshwater Christian College offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to help families with tuition costs. Interested families can check our scholarships page for more information.
What subjects are available at Freshwater Christian College compared to other Cairns high schools?
Freshwater Christian College offers a broad curriculum, including core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, as well as specialist subjects such as Business, Health, and Digital Technologies. Senior students have access to Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses, school based apprenticeships, and university pathways.
What support services are available for students at Freshwater Christian College?
Freshwater Christian College provides a range of student support services, including pastoral care, academic tutoring, and career guidance. The school also has wellbeing programs to support students’ emotional and social development, ensuring they feel confident and prepared for life after high school.
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Connect With Us
(07) 4243 3600
info@fcc.qld.edu.au
369-401 Brinsmead Road,
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