Aboriginal Studies
Learn about the NSW syllabuses for Aboriginal Studies. NSW schools can offer Aboriginal Studies in Years 7–12.
Opportunities for studying Aboriginal Studies
Aboriginal Studies syllabuses develop knowledge and understanding of the diverse Cultures, identities and lived experiences of Aboriginal Peoples.
Aboriginal Studies is designed to be inclusive of all students in NSW schools. The syllabuses are of value to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and to non-Aboriginal students.
NSW schools can offer Aboriginal Studies in Years 7–12.
Years 7–10
In Years 7–10, the Aboriginal Studies Years 7–10 Syllabus (2020) can be studied for:
- 100-hour and 200-hour elective courses
- courses based on Life Skills outcomes and content.
The Aboriginal Studies 7–10 Syllabus (2024) is to be implemented from 2027.
Years 11–12
Students in Years 11–12 can study:
Aboriginal Studies Life Skills can be included as part of courses within the Human Society and It’s Environment Life Skills Stage 6 Syllabus (2010).
Community partnerships support learning
Ongoing Community consultation underpins successful implementation and learning outcomes in Aboriginal Studies. Teachers should work in partnership with their local Aboriginal Community(ies) in planning, programming and delivery of teaching and learning.
More information about Community consultation and partnerships can be found:
- within Aboriginal Languages syllabuses
- on the School and Community partnerships page
- in Working with Aboriginal Communities: A Guide to Community Consultation and Protocols (2008) (PDF 1.09MB).