Art Matters: A practical approach towards achieving HSC success in Visual Arts


Session 1 explores the key skills and concepts relevant to both practical and theory components Year 11 Visual Arts. It will provide practical ideas for creating programs and learning activities that can be applied in the year 11 course with a view to setting students up for success in the HSC year.

Session 2 explores the development of skills relevant to creating a HSC Body of Work. Investigating both material and conceptual practice, this module will give teachers information on how to inspire students’ art works through a demonstration of new and different mediums.

Session 3 offers practical examples of ways to structure writing for the HSC examination paper and how to teach writing. This session will also look at syllabus requirements in terms of how to structure case studies.

Session 4 requires participants to work in small groups to apply knowledge and understanding gained from Sessions 1-3 to analyse teaching programs, assessment strategies and teaching and learning activities. Teachers will generate ideas for programming to be used upon their return to school.


Completing a practical approach towards achieving HSC success in Visual Arts course will contribute 5 hours of NESA Registered PD addressing: 2.1.2, 3.2.2, 3.3.2, 6.3.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Target Participants

Teachers of Year 11 and 12 Visual Arts who wish to develop a deeper understanding of the Stage 6 Visual Arts syllabus content.

Teachers who are new to teaching Visual Arts.

Teachers who would like practical ideas for programming that can be implemented in their schools.


There will be a range of guided discussion and small group delivery modes.

Presentations will explore the key skills and concepts that underpin the Year 12 Visual Arts course and provide insights into the features and demands of both the practical and theory components of the course.

Workshop activities will require participants to apply knowledge and understanding gained in the plenary presentations to develop (or review and refine) a teaching program or assessment task.

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