Teaching & Learning News
YEAR 12 HSC TRIAL EXAMS
Year 12 Trials begin on Monday, 4th August (Term 3, Week 3, Day 1). Students are expected to be preparing for these exams. The exams form the final in-school assessment task for HSC Courses. One of the best ways to prepare for the trial exams is to complete past HSC papers. Students will gain valuable experience in answering actual HSC exam questions, on HSC-formatted documents.
Past HSC papers are free to download from the NESA website: https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/resources/hsc-exam-papers. HSC teachers are happy to provide feedback to students that complete past papers.
Here are some suggestions to assist with studying for your up and coming examinations;
Here are some key tips and reminders to help them stay on track:
✅ Create a Study Plan – Encourage your child to set up a realistic study timetable that includes breaks, revision time, and time for rest and sleep. A balanced routine is essential.
✅ Practice Past Papers – Using previous HSC exams helps students familiarise themselves with question types, improve time management, and identify areas they need to work on.
✅ Stay Active and Eat Well – Regular exercise, healthy meals, and plenty of water can improve focus and reduce stress.
✅ Limit Distractions – Help your child find a quiet, organised study space and consider reducing screen time or social media during study hours.
✅ Check in, but don’t pressure – Be available to listen, encourage small wins, and celebrate progress without adding pressure.
✅ Know When to Ask for Help – Remind students that teachers, mentors, and school counsellors are there to help. If they’re struggling with a subject or feeling overwhelmed, early support is best.
YEAR 10 SUBJECT SELECTIONS
INFORMATION EVENING/SESSIONS FOR YEAR 11, 2026
Monday 11th August |
Year 10 Session - during class, about the processes, terminology and understanding of the Stage 6 requirements |
Tuesday 12th August |
Subject Expos and Parent Information Evening at 6pm |
Wednesday 13th August |
Year 10 Stage 6 Subject Interviews - bookings made available in the coming weeks |
YEAR 11 PRELIMINARY EXAMINATIONS
Year 11 End of Course Exams being on Monday 15th September (Term 3, Week 8, Day 10).
A draft copy of the Year 11 Preliminary timetable will be available next week.
STAGE 6 ASSESSMENT TASKS - TERM 3
WEEK |
YEAR 11 |
YEAR 12 |
3 |
Visual Arts |
|
5 |
Work Studies Music |
English Studies |
WEBINARS FOR YEAR 12 STUDENTS - APPLYING FOR MEDICINE OR DENTISTRY
? 9 – 10 August 2025
Intensive Interview Training Workshop (Live Online Interactive)
A comprehensive 2-day program focusing on medical school interview theory, strategies, assessed criteria, MMI and panel-style interviews.
? View Details
? 16 August 2025
Medical School Application Strategy & Guidance Webinar
Covering applications to Australian, NZ, and UK university medical/dental schools.
? View Details
? 17 August 2025
JCU Dentistry Application Advice
Special focus on Indigenous, Rural, and Tropical Health themes in JCU’s selection process.
? View Details
? Free Live Webinars
UCAT Preparation | Medical Interviews | Academic Insights Program
ATOMI STUDY SUPPORT
As you are aware, our students have access to a range of resources including ATOMI, as students are encouraged to use this to support their learning in class. Here is a tip from ATOMI about building healthy habits around study to increase long term working memory.
Encouraging habit building:
Small, consistent study habits make it easier to revise later on. Recommend strategies:
- Rewatch key lessons to reinforce tricky concepts and refresh what you learned in class.
- Quiz regularly to check what’s sticking and spot areas needing review.
- Write down key takeaways after class—summarising in your own words strengthens understanding
UNIVERSITIES ADMISSIONS CENTRE (UAC)
The Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) plays a key role in helping students transition from school to university and other tertiary study options. Through UAC, students can apply for undergraduate courses at participating universities using one streamlined application process.
UAC not only simplifies the university application journey, but also supports students in exploring a wide range of pathways and course options based on their interests, goals, and academic results. It provides up-to-date information about course prerequisites, selection criteria, and ATAR requirements, helping students make informed decisions about their future.
Applications for 2026 university entry are now open and students are encouraged to begin exploring their options early. By applying through UAC, students can list up to five course preferences and have the flexibility to change these throughout the application period.
We encourage all families to support their child in researching courses, attending open days, and discussing future aspirations. For more information, visit www.uac.edu.au.