Learning Update

Teamwork and the HSC

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” 

This African proverb encapsulates the essence of collaboration and community which is central to life at Kinross Wolaroi School. While the relationship between teacher and student is often highlighted, the importance of working together with peers in the classroom cannot be overstated. 

Practices such as collaborative group work and peer assessment are proven to increase understanding and the sense of an academically minded community - something that is deeply valued here at Kinross Wolaroi.

As we approach a pivotal time of the year, it's a good moment to remind our most senior students about the value of teamwork. In a busy School community like ours, examples of teamwork amongst our students outside the classroom are everywhere.  A bowler is reliant on their fielders catching the ball to be credited with the wicket in the scorebook, the player who places the ball over the try line is rarely the sole creator of the opportunity that led to the try, the musician or singer is often dependent on others in the performance piece in assembly or chapel. The value of collaboration is undeniable, as Kipling says: 

“For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack” 

My challenge to our Year 12 students is to apply this spirit of teamwork into theclassroom. 

It’s common to hear that, during the HSC, students initially view one another as competitors, only to unite as a team after the trials, supporting each other in their quest for the best possible results. This often stems from the belief that internal assessment rankings have a direct impact on the final HSC mark. However, this view doesn’t fully reflect the reality of the situation. 

What truly matters is not the number on a ranking list, but a student’s performance relative to their own potential and how they compare to the highest achievers. The link between the previous statement and effort is clear for all to see.  

In fact, one student achieving their best results - both in school assessments and the HSC examinations - does not harm anyone else’s success. On the contrary, it is crucial that everyone, aims for the best results they can achieve. Success is not a zero-sum game; when one student excels, it elevates the entire cohort. 

Ultimately, the most important thing is individual effort and resulting performance. By striving for our personal best, we take control of our own futures. But just as importantly, we benefit from the success of others. When everyone in the cohort performs at their highest level, everyone rises together. 

In this sense, students should see their cohort as a team—supporting one another to reach greater heights. The better everyone does, the better everyone does. So, let’s keep pushing each other to achieve the best possible results from start to finish. 

Be part of the tide that lifts all boats.