Community and family studies (CAFS) is a course drawing upon selected components of family studies, sociology, developmental psychology and students’ general life experiences. This course focuses on skills in resource management that enable people to function effectively in their everyday lives, in families and communities. It develops students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes relevant to effective decision-making leading to confidence and competence in solving practical problems in the management of everyday living.
This course provides opportunities for students to explore and form positive attitudes about themselves and others, to develop an understanding of their relationships within their families and other groups, to learn to work cooperatively and to appreciate the importance of effective communication.
The dynamic nature of this area of study places particular importance on the skills of inquiry and investigation. Research is an integral component of this subject. Students are required to develop and utilise research skills in planning, collecting, recording, interpreting, analysing and presenting as they employ various research methodologies to complete an Independent Research Project (IRP).
Further information is available on the NESA website.
If a student qualifies, the Community and Family Studies Life Skills Course is available in mainstream classes. More information on Life Skills courses can be found here.