The brothers, 16, are among 950 new students across years 11 to 13 who will begin their schooling at Bendigo Senior Secondary College this week.

On their timetable for the day was a range of subjects, including maths methods, physics, chemistry, English and history.

Josh said the variety of subjects offered had been a major drawcard.

“That was part of the reason we decided to come to Bendigo Senior,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to the history subject revolutions.”

Tom was interested in legal studies and science.

“I’m interested in doing law or something in the sciences,” he said.

“I have a rough idea of what I want to do, but it’s good to have options.”

Principal Dale Pearce said the school was the largest VCE provider in Victoria and offered more than 70 subjects.

“Most students will undertake six, with some doing five depending on the program they have enrolled in,” he said.

Tom and Josh, who completed year 10 at Eaglehawk Secondary College last year, have both opted to enrol in a five subjects for 2012.

“I will have four or five free class periods a week, which is pretty standard for most people completing five subjects in year 11,” Tom said.

Mr Pearce welcomed the boys and their fellow year 11 students at an assembly yesterday.

“The message was simple, that hopefully they were ready and all organised for their first days, and remind them of our expectations for the year,” he said.

“We treat our students as young adults and they react well to that.”

This was reflected in their numbers, Mr Pearce said.

“Our enrolments are up this year,” he said.

“An increasing number of students are also returning for year 13, with 55 this year alone.

“We’re seeing a growing trend of students planning to complete their studies over three years whether to accommodate part-time work, sport or for the opportunity to undertake an even larger range of subjects.”