Are you a creative student with a passion for art? Do you love to explore new materials, develop your skills, and bring your ideas to life?
At Trinity Bay State High School, the Visual Arts Industries (VAI) Program is designed to challenge and extend students who demonstrate strong artistic potential and a desire to pursue excellence in visual arts.
Open to students from Year 7 to Year 12, the VAI program offers a dynamic, multidisciplinary experience that includes:
- Mentoring by professional local artists
- Hands-on studio development
- Skill-building in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and digital media
- Real-world exhibition opportunities and public showcases
Whether you’re looking to build a career in the creative industries or simply want to push your artistic boundaries, VAI provides the perfect environment to grow.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit the following:
- School of Excellence Application Form
- Trinity Bay SHS Enrolment Form
For Year 6 into Year 7 students, applications are due by midday on the Tuesday of the final week of Term 1.
Where to Find Forms
All application and enrolment forms can be found on the "Enrolling at our school" section of the Trinity Bay SHS website.
Application Checklist
- Complete all forms accurately and completely
- Include two photocopies of your child's most recent school report
Note: Do not send original documents
Students may apply for multiple Excellence Programs, though a choice may be required if scheduling conflicts arise.
Application Process
Stage 1: Application Review
All submitted applications will be reviewed. Shortlisted students will be contacted for an interview.
Stage 2: Interview & Portfolio Review
Shortlisted applicants and their parents will be invited to a face-to-face interview. Each interview will last approximately 45 minutes and includes:
-
Portfolio Presentation.
Students must bring a portfolio showcasing at least five original artworks that demonstrate their interests, skills, and preferred techniques. This can include physical work, photographs of 3D pieces, or digital images on an iPad. -
Discussion of Artwork.
Students will discuss their portfolio and complete a visual response to an unseen artwork. -
Drawing Exercise.
Students will be given a still life arrangement and a variety of materials, and asked to create an original piece in response.
Each component of the interview will be scored out of five (total possible score: 15). Offers will be extended to students who perform strongly in this stage.
Stage 3: Outcome Notification
- Applicants not selected for interview will be notified after shortlisting is completed in early Term 2.
- Successful applicants will be notified before the end of Term 2 and invited to a welcome and meet-and-greet session.
- Unsuccessful applicants may be re-evaluated during the school year if teachers observe strong artistic development.
If your child is offered a place, a prompt response is required to formally accept or decline the offer. If the school does not receive confirmation by the deadline, the offer may be withdrawn.
Stage 4: Acceptance & Deposit
To confirm your child’s place:
- A $100 deposit is required by the end of Term 3 (credited toward next year’s school fees)
- Submit the signed Excellence Program Contract included in your offer letter
Only one deposit is required, even if your child is accepted into multiple programs
Payments can be made at the school’s front office.