Centre for Excellence Science and Mathematics

About the C4E program

Darwin High School invites current Year 9 students to register for the Centre for Excellence (C4E) in Science and Mathematics. This is a select entry program offering extended learning for high ability students in Years 10, 11 and 12 across a range of advanced science and mathematics subjects.

Students in our C4E program are provided with a range of opportunities that extend their learning beyond the mainstream classroom. This includes:

• specialised scientific and mathematical learning opportunities through our industry partnerships
• access to workshops through our C4E partnership with Charles Darwin University
• opportunities to compete in local and national Science and Mathematics competitions
• priority access to excursion opportunities including C4E trips

All of our C4E teachers are qualified in two or more Stage 2 subjects.

Graduates of the program are well placed to pursue diverse career paths across scientific and mathematical fields including medical and health, engineering, environmental biology, biotechnology, geology and forensic science. Students may choose to pursue either or both of the science and mathematics streams.

Who is C4E for?

Typically our C4E program is for students aspiring to careers in engineering, including chemical and mechanical, mathematics, and science including biotechnology, forensic science and medicine. The program is open to all students who have a thirst for learning and demonstrated aptitude in the Mathematics and Science learning areas.

Students who succeed in C4E are independent learners who welcome the challenge of taking on additional work and developing greater depth and breadth of knowledge in the C4E learning areas. C4E classes follow the same curriculum as mainstream Science and Mathematics students, but explore additional topics with a focus on cross-subject skills development through greater integration across subjects.

How do I apply?

Entry into C4E is selective. Current Year 9 students apply for a limited number of places and sit a placement test. A $10 fee applies to sit the tests.

1. Complete the CompassTix registration in the student's name.
2. Email a copy of the Year 9 Semester 1 2026 report to [email protected] before the entry test date.
3. Students not currently enrolled at Darwin High School also need to complete the enrolment form and submit it in person at the Front Office or by email to [email protected] before the entry test date.

Registrations close on Friday 4 September 2026. Late registrations will not be accepted.

Centre for Excellence courses

Testing dates

• C4E Mathematics entry test: Tuesday 8 September 2026
• C4E Science entry test: Thursday 10 September 2026

Registrations close on Friday 4 September 2026. Late registrations will not be accepted.