Gleeson College Curriculum Guide 2026 - Middle Years | 22 Year 8 Subjects Welcome Learning at Gleeson College Gleeson Staff Contacts Year 7 Overview Subjects Year 8 Overview Subjects Year 9 Overview Subjects SPECIALIST NETBALL* LEARNING AREA: Health & Physical Education LENGTH: Full Year SELECTION: Elective LEARNING SUMMARY: Students build on foundations learnt in Year 7 by refining their skills, knowledge, and understanding of netball, with a focus on developing confidence and competence in umpiring. The program develops key aspects of the game, including footwork, ball skills, attacking, defending, shooting, strategy, fitness, and team dynamics. Students follow a structured course designed to support their progression through netball pathways. Practical sessions are supported by specialist coaching, while theory lessons focus on rules, decision-making, and effective communication. The course promotes holistic athlete development, combining physical skill-building with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities involved in playing and officiating netball. The Netball Program is designed for students who currently play netball, preferably at club level. Entry may involve a trial, and additional costs apply. ASSESSMENT: Students demonstrate their learning through practical assessments and theory tasks. SPECIALIST WORLD FOOTBALL* LEARNING SUMMARY: Students continue to refine their individual football skills, including ball striking, first touch, close control at pace, and 1v1 techniques. They strengthen their understanding of the ‘Gleeson Way’ and apply it within a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on maintaining possession and building play through defence, midfield, and attack. Students explore pathways to professional football and the importance of inclusion and connection through the sport. The program also develops advanced tactical concepts such as transitions, counter-attacking, and team pressing. Students analyse gameplay using ICT tools and engage in both practical and theory-based learning to support their technical and tactical development. The World Football Program is designed for students who currently play football, preferably at club level. Entry may involve a trial, and additional costs apply. ASSESSMENT: Students demonstrate their learning through practical assessments and theory tasks. LEARNING AREA: Health & Physical Education LENGTH: Full Year SELECTION: Elective VISUAL ARTS CREATIVE DIMENSIONS LEARNING AREA: The Arts LENGTH: Semester SELECTION: Elective LEARNING SUMMARY: Students will extend their usage of visual art media with drawing skills, 3D sculpture, acrylic paint and multi- media artworks. They continue to develop their practical and analytical skills through tasks that require them to research, plan, make, and respond. ASSESSMENT: Students demonstrate their learning through assessment of practical skills and production, research tasks and reflection.