Humanities: One of the most diverse and dynamic learning areas at our College

Written by Mrs Gabriella Raponi (Head of Humanities Faculty)

28 July 2026

What do ancient civilisations, global water security, Australia's democracy and the world of business all have in common?

They are all part of Humanities, one of the most diverse and dynamic learning areas at our college. Far more than the study of the past, Humanities helps students understand the people, places, systems and events that shape our world. Through inquiry, investigation and critical thinking, students learn to analyse evidence, solve problems, evaluate different perspectives and make informed decisions about the complex issues facing society today.

At our College, the Humanities program encompasses four key disciplines: History, Geography, Economics and Business, and Civics and Citizenship. Together, these subjects help students develop curiosity, critical thinking, communication and informed decision making while building a strong understanding of the world at local, national and global levels.

History takes students on a journey through time, from Ancient Australia and Ancient Greece to Medieval Europe, Shogun Japan, the Industrial Revolution, Colonial Australia, the World Wars and Indigenous Rights and Freedoms. Through these topics, students learn to analyse historical evidence, evaluate different perspectives and understand how the past continues to shape the present.

Geography encourages students to investigate the connections between people, places and environments. Aligned with the Victorian Curriculum 2.0, students explore topics including Water in the World, Changing Nations, Biomes and Food Security, and the Geographies of Human Wellbeing. These units develop students' ability to interpret maps, analyse data, investigate contemporary issues and propose solutions to real world challenges such as sustainability, population change and global inequality.

Economics and Business, together with Civics and Citizenship, help students understand how societies function. Students explore how businesses operate, how consumers and governments make decisions, how Australia's democracy works and the rights and responsibilities of active citizens. Along the way, they develop practical skills in financial literacy, problem solving, collaboration and critical thinking that are valuable in everyday life.

Students who develop a passion for Humanities can extend their learning through a range of elective subjects. Year 9 students can select Commerce, while Year 10 students can choose Business and Economics or Legal Studies and Politics. These electives provide opportunities to apply classroom learning to authentic scenarios, investigate contemporary issues in greater depth and build confidence in analytical and inquiry-based learning.

The Humanities program also provides an excellent foundation for VCE studies. Many students continue into subjects such as History, Economics, Accounting, Business Management, Legal Studies and Sociology, where the research, analytical, communication and evaluation skills developed throughout Years 7 to 10 become invaluable.

Ultimately, Humanities encourages students to be curious about the world, think critically about the issues that shape our future, and develop the confidence to become informed, responsible and engaged members of their communities. By connecting learning across History, Geography, Economics and Business, and Civics and Citizenship, students gain a broad understanding of society and the skills needed to contribute positively in further study, the workplace and everyday life.