Graphic Design Media

Students will develop new technology skills essential for success in the creative industries and beyond.

Students will have a strong foundation in Graphic Design, Media Arts, and Visual Communication after completing the program in Year 10. Acquired skills will prepare them for success in senior school and further education at our partner institutions Curtin and Murdoch Universities.

Project-Based Learning and 21st Century Skills

Led by experienced teachers in their respective fields, the GDM program provides an innovative learning environment that integrates industry-standard software, hands-on projects, and real-world applications.

Through Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodologies and Design Thinking frameworks, students engage in meaningful design and media projects that reflect industry practices. They participate in workshops, masterclasses, and collaborations with professionals in fields such as printmaking, animation, illustration, photography, filmmaking, and game design. Partnerships with local industry, universities, and community organisations further enhance their learning experience, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world applications that prepare them for future careers.

Application Process

Students apply for the GDM program through a specialist selection process.

Applications for 2027 entry close Friday 13 March 2026.

Step 1: Online Application

Complete the Approved Specialist Program application form

Step 2: Specialist Testing

Applicants then complete a specialist program test assessing their creative problem-solving skills and academic aptitude.

Step 3: Prepare a Digital Portfolio

Supply a folder on a USB drive at interview stage of a digital portfolio of 12 of their best works from the past 18 months. The portfolio should demonstrate a range of skills, showcasing projects such as:

Animation and Film (storyboards, stills, or video files)
Experimental or Mixed Media Work
Fashion, Jewellery, or Product Design
Graphic Design (logos, branding, posters, printed matter)
Illustration and Cartooning
Model Making or Architectural Design
Photography (series of images following a theme)
Printmaking or Book Illustration
Web and User Experience (UX Design)

Students may also submit a supplementary folder containing work-in-progress pieces, sketches, and process documentation that demonstrate their creative thinking.

Step 4: Interview Process

Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview, where they present their portfolio and discuss their creative interests. The interview is a key part of the selection process.

Step 5: Receive an Offer of Placement

Successful applicants will receive a formal offer of placement into the GDM program.

Note:

Scholarship opportunities are available for high-performing applicants, based on portfolio quality, testing results, and interview performance.

Career Pathways and Partners

The GDM program supports pathways into a wide range of creative careers, including:

Advertising and Marketing
Animation
Film and Television Production
Game Design
Graphic Design and Branding
Journalism and Digital Media
UX & Web Design

Industry and Education Partnerships

Students benefit from our partnerships with Murdoch University, Curtin University, and industry professionals, gaining access to:

University workshops and mentoring
Guest lectures by industry professionals
Real-world project collaborations

Student Journey and Support

Progression of Learning

Year 7 – Introduction to design and media through hands-on projects that explore visual storytelling, animation, and collaborative art installations.
Year 8 – Developing skills in photography, short film production, and digital illustration, with a focus on composition, storytelling, and media design.
Year 9 – Expanding into concept art, sequential storytelling, and 3D design, with projects that encourage world-building, branding, and character design.
Year 10 – Independent project development, portfolio-building, and industry engagement, where students specialise in areas such as game and experience design, digital branding, or multimedia production.

Senior School Pathways

The program’s focus on developing 21^st century skills equip students with a strong foundation for all senior school pathways. The program specifically builds skills for student success in the following courses:

ATAR

Design
Media Arts
Visual Arts

General

Graphic Design
Media Arts
Visual Arts

Certificate

Media Production
Creative Industry

Partnerships, Masterclasses and Workshops

Students are supported with incursions and excursions from leading experts in all fields from industry partners and universities.

University Excursions: Students visit Murdoch University and Curtin University for hands-on workshops exploring specialist areas in design, digital media, and animation. These experiences introduce students to industry-standard tools, workflows, and tertiary pathways.
Industry Masterclasses: Delivered by professional animators, designers, filmmakers, and illustrators, these workshops provide practical insights into creative industries. Students participate in hands-on activities to develop their technical and creative skills.
Community Engagement: Students contribute to their school and local community through exhibitions and public artworks.

Achievements

The GDM program is proud of the achievements of its students:

Exhibitions and Competitions – Students present their work at community events, public showcases, and competitions.
University Pathways and Careers – Graduates build strong portfolios, develop industry connections, and pursue further study in creative fields. Many transition into design and media programs at tertiary institutions.
21st Century Skills for 21st Century Jobs – Through real-world projects, collaboration with industry professionals, and hands-on experience, students gain practical problem-solving, digital literacy, and creative thinking skills essential for emerging careers in design, media, and technology.

To apply, please complete our application form.