SACE

South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is the educational qualification awarded to students who have completed the requirements of senior secondary schooling in the state of South Australia. It is managed and administered by the SACE Board of South Australia, which is responsible for accrediting subjects, approving courses, and moderating assessments to ensure statewide standards are maintained. The SACE is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and personal capabilities to successfully move into further education, training, or employment.

Overview

The SACE program is typically undertaken by students in Years 11 and 12, although some students may begin to accumulate credits towards their SACE in Year 10. To achieve the SACE, students must complete a certain number of credits from a range of subjects and courses, including compulsory subjects such as English and Mathematics, as well as a choice of elective subjects that cater to their interests and career aspirations.

Requirements

To be awarded the SACE, students must earn 200 credits, with one credit equating to approximately 10 hours of study. The requirements are divided into two stages:

• Stage 1, usually completed in Year 11, involves students earning 60 credits from a range of subjects, including the compulsory Personal Learning Plan (PLP).
• Stage 2, usually completed in Year 12, requires students to earn 140 credits, including three compulsory subjects: Research Project, and at least 60 credits from a range of Stage 2 subjects.

In addition to these requirements, students must demonstrate literacy and numeracy competencies through assessments in their subjects or through the SACE Board's literacy and numeracy assessments.

Assessment

Assessment in the SACE includes both school-based assessment and external assessment. School-based assessment accounts for 70% of a student's final grade in most subjects, with the remaining 30% coming from external assessments, which may include examinations, performances, or investigations.

Recognition

The SACE is recognized nationally and internationally by universities, higher education institutions, and employers. It provides a pathway to further education and employment by ensuring students have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed beyond high school.

See Also

• Education in South Australia
• Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)
• Vocational Education and Training (VET)