Human Society and It's Environment

At Evans River HSIE aims to develop informed and responsible citizens who are aware of social, economic, and environmental issues, and who can engage thoughtfully with the challenges facing society. Through a combination of knowledge, skills, and values, we prepare students to navigate and contribute positively to their local community and the broader world.

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Supplementary
A group of students in teal uniforms walking down a grassy path toward a body of water framed by mountains and trees.
Human Society and its Environment (HSIE) is an educational framework that focuses on the study of people, societies, and environments. It encompasses a range of subjects aimed at helping students understand the complexities of human interactions and the world they inhabit.
Students outdoors holding historical projects, including Roman-style shields, helmets, artwork, and mosaics.
Assessment of student outcomes in Years 7-10 is linked to fieldwork and geographical tools in Geography, and source work and historical analysis in History. These skills are assessed through in-class projects and examinations. The development of literacy, particularly written communication, is a focus of all HSIE subjects.
Three students viewing framed artwork hanging on a gallery wall.

We also encourage students to enter Geography and History competitions such as:

  • Australian Geography Competition
  • Australian History Competition
  • The Simpson Prize
  • The Anzac Day Schools’ Award - of which Evans River was the National Winner for Best Local Research (2015).
The study of Geography and History is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.
Additionally, Commerce and Elective History are offered in Years 9 and 10 as optional studies.
In Year 11 and 12, the following HSIE subjects are offered:

  • Business Studies

  • Legal Studies

  • Ancient History

  • Modern History

  • Aboriginal Studies

  • Geography

  • Society and Culture

    Each of these senior subjects are taught by specialist teachers who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to enhance student learning and performance in the Higher School Certificate.

At Evans River the HSIE curriculum goes beyond the classroom, offering students enriching excursions and fieldwork opportunities.
The major experiences provided by our dedicated staff are:
  • Year 7 Geography - Rocky Creek Dam
  • Year 8 Geography - Rous Water Catchment Program
  • Year 9 -10 Commerce - Byron Bay Tourism experience
  • Year 9 History - World War I Living History Incursion
  • Year 9 Canberra Excursion
  • Year 10 Geography - Coastal Management Fieldwork Trip
  • Legal Studies - District Court Visit
  • Modern History - Evans Head Air Weapons Range
  • Ancient & Modern History - HSC Study Days at Coffs Harbour Education Campus
Students in teal uniforms conducting fieldwork tests using measuring cylinders and equipment around a blue tarp near a lake.
Year 7 Geography - Rocky Creek Dam
A large group of students in teal uniforms posing for a group photo in front of Australian Parliament House.
Year 9 Canberra Excursion
A museum display featuring boards with historical photos, stories, and poppies commemorating Australian soldiers.
A student dressed in a historical military uniform and helmet holding a rifle prop during a presentation in front of a trench backdrop.
Students in school uniforms, military cadets, and community members participating in an evening ANZAC Day parade along a street.
Anzac Day

Learning

Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students to progress.

K - 6 Program

At Evans River K-12 School, our K–6 faculty provides a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for students from Kindergarten through to Year 6.