Specialist Electives Shine in VCE: Beyond English and Maths

New analysis of 2025 VCE data reveals that while English and mathematics frequently contribute to high VCE scores in Victorian schools, many institutions are achieving their best results in specialist elective subjects. Subjects such as outdoor education, business management, food studies, and art are noted for producing high-achieving students. These findings are presented in the Victorian Schools Guide, an interactive dashboard from The Age.

Many institutions are achieving their best results in specialist elective subjects, including outdoor education, business management, food studies, and art.

Frankston High Leads in Outdoor Education Excellence

Frankston High School notably leads in outdoor and environmental education, recording the highest number of top-scoring results in Victoria for this subject. Of the 48 Year 12 students undertaking outdoor and environmental studies last year, 15 achieved a 40+ study score, placing them within the top 10 percent statewide. Another 11 students scored 37 or above.

Principal Andrew Batchelor highlighted the program's strength, noting its focus on land and water conservation with practical skills applied outdoors. The program, now run by an alumna, often fosters strong relationships among students and staff, contributing to its success.

VCE Score Trends Across Victorian Schools

Among the 472 Victorian schools offering VCE in 2025 that secured at least one 40+ study score, almost a third recorded more 40+ scores in English than any other subject. English also had the highest VCE enrolments across the state.

General mathematics was identified as the top subject for 100 schools in terms of 40+ scores. Business management led for 35 schools, health and human development for 27, biology for 25, and psychology for 18 schools.

Mathematical Methods: A Strength at Melbourne High

Melbourne High School, an all-boys selective-entry institution, achieved 109 40+ scores in mathematical methods. This figure represents almost a third of its students in the subject for 2025.

Principal Tony Mordini indicated that while mathematical methods is a school strength, mandatory sport participation through Year 12 also contributes significantly to student focus. Eight other Victorian schools, including John Monash Science School and Scotch College, also saw mathematical methods as their leading subject for 40+ scores.