SACE Stage One

  • Stage 1 (usually year 11) marks the commencement of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). During Year 11, students begin building the academic foundation required for successful SACE completion and for future study beyond school.

    Stage 1 offers students greater choice and flexibility, allowing them to select subjects that reflect their strengths, interests, and intended post-school pathways.

  • All students are required to complete the following compulsory subjects in Year 11:

    • English (full year)

    • Mathematics (full year)

    Both English and Mathematics are essential SACE requirements and must be achieved at a minimum C grade to contribute toward SACE completion.

    Students also undertake Activating Identities and Futures (AIF), a compulsory one-semester subject, which must likewise be completed with a minimum C grade.

  • In addition to the compulsory subjects, students select four elective subjects. These choices should be made carefully, with consideration given to:

    • individual strengths and interests

    • subjects required or recommended for Stage 2

    • prerequisite subjects for university or TAFE pathways

    All Stage 1 subjects are worth 10 SACE credits. By the end of Year 11, students who successfully meet all requirements will have completed at least 120 of the 200 credits required to achieve the SACE.

  • Student achievement in Stage 1 subjects is reported using grades from A to E. These grades align with SACE performance standards, which describe the extent to which students have demonstrated their understanding, skills, and application of subject content.

  • Detailed subject outlines, assessment information, and additional guidance can be found in the Curriculum Guide and on the SACE website.