College Counsellor News

Every year, more and more emphasis is placed on achieving good results in exams causing many students to feel extraordinary pressure and having unrealistic expectations. 

Please recognize that while the final year of school is important, it will not be the most important year in your life. It is important for parents and the community to reinforce the mantra, “You are more than your ATAR!”. A student’s performance in Year 12 is only a point in time measured by their ability to sit an exam.  If the desired ATAR score is not achieved, at the end of the day, there are other options available. It will not define happiness. There will be many other pathways available to help reach their goals.

“ATAR is not an IQ Score. The ATAR - Australian Tertiary Admission Rank - is exactly that. A rank. It is not a measure of how well you will succeed in life, and it is not a ticket to a high-paying job. It won’t set you up for life, and it certainly won’t end your chances.”

Alexander Smith (Author of “If you want to blitz your year 12 exams read this book”)

In this edition of SchoolTV, parents will find advice on how to help students cope with the pressure and how students can work smarter to achieve the results they desire.

Exams are like a game. Once you know how to play the game, your chances of achieving great results rapidly increase. Parents can learn how to assist their kids to maintain perspective and keep their sanity intact during exam time. 

Diet, exercise and sleep all play an important part in helping a student balance a busy schedule and study smarter. Keeping stress levels to a minimum and reducing anxiety can be easily achieved through careful planning and having a supportive environment.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Exam Jitters edition of SchoolTV.

Karen Surian College/School Counsellor