News

Final preparation begins

THE finish line is rapidly approaching for almost 70,000 students about to complete Year 12, with the first Higher School Certificate exam beginning next week.

HSC exams kicked off in August with more than 5,600 students completing their oral language exams and 9,500 performance exams in Dance, Music and Drama – and now, final preparations are underway for the written exams which begin next Wednesday, October 12.
Federal Education Minister and Blaxland MP, Jason Clare says he still remembers how stressful the HSC is – 33 years later.
“Good luck to everyone who is doing exams in the next few weeks,” he said.
“I hope you get the results you want and get the chance next year to study or work in an area you really love.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell, said it was great to see the HSC return to normal after two years of Covid-19-affected learning.
“I know students starting their exams are breathing a sigh of relief having had a smoother start to their HSC journey,” Ms Mitchell said.
“All students can take comfort in that fact that we have stringent measures in place to reduce potential disruptions this year, including alternative arrangements if they are unable to sit an exam due to illness.”
Ms Mitchell says Covid-smart protocols will be in place, including physical distancing and strongly encouraging face masks. Hand sanitiser, alcohol wipes and masks will also be readily available to students.
“Our most important message to students is to stay home and get tested if you feel unwell on the day of an exam,” she said.
Languages are the first of 126 courses to be examined.
“Learning a second language is an invaluable experience and an important skill in a globalised world,” Ms Mitchell said.
“In NSW, we are surrounded by rich and diverse languages – and the NSW Curriculum provides students from all backgrounds with the opportunity to engage with and value those cultures.”
HSC written exams will wrap up on Friday, November 4.