Agriculture has formed the basis of James Ruse Agricultural High School for the many years of the school's existence. Since the early days of Carlingford Agricultural High School, the school has been at the forefront of Agricultural education in New South Wales. Agriculture is the raising of crops and animals to provide food, fibre and other raw materials needed by society. Agriculture is a critically important industry in Australia, providing food and materials for domestic consumption and also export revenue. It is the continuing teaching of Agriculture that is vital to the future of Australia and at James Ruse; students are challenged to learn about it in the living dynamic context of a farm where they have the opportunity to enhance their learning through a variety of learning styles. With the challenge to feed an ever-increasing world population and maintain and improve the environment in which we live, numerous exciting career opportunities are available in Agriculture. Agriculture is a compulsory, accelerated course for Years 7 to 10 and is optional for all students in Year 11.
As a subject, Agriculture is designed to develop students’ knowledge and understanding about the production and marketing of both animal and plant products. Students also develop the associated skills and responsible attitudes that are necessary to manage and market these products in a sustainable manner.
