Philosophy

New technologies and technological systems continually exert an ever-greater influence on our lives today. Design, Technology and Engineering and the study of designed solutions to practical problems has emerged as an absolutely essential part of a comprehensive public education. Technologies represent the real-world application of scientific principles to solve problems and increase our efficiency in the world, as well as our enjoyment of it.

Subjects

Subjects taught in the Junior school are Architectural & Engineering Drawing (Years 9 & 10) and Design & Technology (Years 7-10).

Subjects taught for the HSC are Engineering Studies and Software Design & Development.

Our courses provide students with exposure to pre-engineering concepts and activities in the areas of architectural & technical drawing, software design & programming, CAD, computer applications such as power point, spreadsheet, database, desktop publishing, hydraulics and structural engineering. These experiences are essential for students to form a solid foundation for post-secondary education career choices and University.

Practical projects involve the mediums of Plastic, Wood & Metal and students design & construct a wide range of projects from Money Boxes & Tool Boxes to Side Tables & Chess Board Units.

The format of courses encourages students to develop team and individual work habits, problem solving and critical thinking skills, pride in the production of quality product and a sense of creative achievement. The Industrial Arts Department highlights the Eco Friendliness, minimal impact to the Environment, political & ethical correctness in the design & production of Students’ projects.

Higher School Certificate Results

Software Design and Development
Over the last 5 years, there has been a considerable increase in Band 6 candidates. On average 40 to 50% of candidates sitting the course achieved a Band 6 whilst the remainder achieved a Band 5. This result is on par and above the school’s target for Band 5 and 6 results. This was achieved despite the fact that still only 9% of the entire NSW candidature achieved Band 6 and 30% achieved Band 5 in 2007.

Engineering Studies
The Engineering Studies results were excellent for the 2007 HSC, and consolidated another good year on the heels of last year’s exceptional results for Engineering at this school. The class achieved 33.33% of Band 6 results compared with a state average of 6.3%. Furthermore, there were 50% Band 5 results compared to the state average of 22.33%. Engineering Studies continues to grow at Sydney Boys High School with 2 classes formed in Year 11 and 2 classes studying for the current HSC.