What’s the big deal? Why are you here? What do you want from the HSC?

Try to avoid this:

Tips for getting through:  Manage your time  Set goals  Take breaks  Exercise  Sleep (8-9 hours a night is best at this age)  Eat well  Drink water  Study……. the best way for you  BREATHE!

Assessment  What do you Need to Do ?  Get a copy of the Assessment Program. READ IT!  Complete the assessment tasks on time. Keep a Calendar! The Assessment Program has details on what to do when things go wrong.  Some HSC courses have prescribed texts, topics, projects and works that must be considered or studied for the Higher School Certificate. You should ensure that you are aware of the requirements for your course.  If in doubt, ASK.

More tips to get you through:  Use a buddy system to support each other & check on your progress  Be realistic  ASK FOR HELP!  Look at the BIG picture. It’s part of the journey, not the destination. Are there other ways to get where you’re going?  Keep a sense of humour

WHAT NEXT? Students may have a strong idea about this, a rough idea or none at all. This is normal! Where to get information:  The school Careers Advisor  Careers Expo Days  University Open Days  hsc.csu.edu.au Beyond the HSC hsc.csu.edu.au  Friends & family can be a starting point.

Options for Uni  Straight ATAR entry via UAC  Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)- Early Entry  Educational Access Scheme (EAS)  These address issues of hardship. They address the mythical Bonus 5 points for your ATAR  Go to the UAC website for more details

Remember, those who manage best:  Plan their study time  Maintain positive relationships with family & friends  Make time for exercise & leisure  Get plenty of sleep  Learn & practice relaxation techniques

Manage your stress. What works best for you?

How parents can help  Provide a quiet, comfortable place to study  Encourage a healthy balance between school & leisure  Encourage good eating & sleeping habits  Highlight their strengths & help them not dwell on mistakes: “So what can you learn from this?”  Be realistic in your expectations  Cut them a little slack; they are going to be hypersensitive & anxious sometimes

How to help  Avoid arguing over small things  Help them keep a “Work-Life balance”  Support and encourage them. PRAISE them.  Don’t join them in any panic; reassure them they can only do their best. Be the voice of calm.  If you’re really worried, talk to your GP, the Year Advisor, the DP. Or check out some websites for great tips. Community Health is a great source of assistance.

When there is too much stress Signs to look out for:  Irritability  Poor concentration  Poor memory  Recurrent thoughts  Anxiety about small things  Disturbed sleep  Poor appetite  Indigestion  Headaches  Lack of tolerance for others  Crying or angry outbursts ** particularly if they last more than a few weeks**

Remember!  In amongst the classes and assessments and deciding what you want to do in the future, you're meant to enjoy your final years at school.

So, what’s the main message?

Try to keep looking like this:

Not this:

Or this:

Look forward to this:

Useful Websites          and  Check out their BRAVE program   **  or   Parkes Community Mental Health Team Phoenix House, Clarinda St,  24 Hour Mental Health Information and Support Line on  ** These are uni-sites & e-tools, NOT diagnostic sites.**