Do you have a child in Year 10 or even Year 9? This is an exciting time of year when students begin to explore their interests and strengths as they start thinking about course selections for Years 11 and 12.

As your child approaches this important stage in their schooling, the decisions they make now will help shape their future and determine their focus for the next two years. The New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC) is a major milestone, and choosing the right subjects and pathways is key to a successful and rewarding experience.

Here’s some advice to help parents of Year 10 students support their child through this exciting, and at times challenging, transition.

1. Having choice is good, but making subject choices can be difficult.

The many HSC subjects can be overwhelming, especially when students must total 12 units or are in acceleration.

Encourage your child to choose subjects they’re genuinely interested in and that match their strengths. Writing down their choices helps with discussion and clarity.

Usually, studying 12 units is best unless they have a strong interest or ability in extension courses.

2. Listen to your child's passions and areas of interest as it is their study pathway for two years.

This is perhaps the most important piece of advice.Your child will be dedicating a significant amount of time and effort to these subjects. When students are engaged and passionate about what they’re learning, they’re more likely to excel and enjoy the process.

Sit down with your child and genuinely listen to their ideas, even if they seem unconventional or different from what you might have chosen. Their interests could lead to unexpected and rewarding pathways.

3. If they have an interest and they are aiming for an apprenticeship or for university study, what subjects should they do?

If your child has a clear post-school goal whether university, an apprenticeship, TAFE, or work this should guide their subject choices.

Research any prerequisite subjects for university courses or recommended subjects for apprenticeships. For example, some degrees require specific maths or science, while certain trades benefit from VET courses offered in the HSC.

4. Use the Curriculum Handbook for a guide on courses, assessments, and major work requirements.

Your school’s Curriculum Handbook is an invaluable resource. It provides detailed information on each course, including content, assessment requirements, and any major work components.

Encourage your child to read the descriptions of subjects they are considering. Understanding the workload and assessment types can help them make informed decisions and manage their time effectively.

They should avoid choosing a course just because of friendships or because an older sibling took it.

5. Attend curriculum information sessions and sit down with your child and discuss subjects required/or they want to study.

Schools usually hold information sessions for Year 10 students and parents about subject selections for Years 11 and 12. Make every effort to attend.

These sessions offer a chance to hear from teachers, the Year Coordinator, and Career Pathways staff, and to ask questions for a clearer understanding of the options.

Afterwards, sit down with your child for a final discussion. This helps ensure their voice is heard, you can offer informed guidance, and they can submit their preferred choices.

6. Have a backup, because sometimes there is a timetable clash, so what else would they choose?

Even with careful planning, subject choices can sometimes cause timetable clashes or courses may not run due to low numbers. It’s wise to have a backup plan. Discuss alternative subjects your child would be happy to study. This helps reduce stress if their first choices aren’t possible.

Please contact the school early to discuss options if needed.

Giving your child the chance to explore their strengths and interests will help narrow down their subject choices. This is part of our Excelsior Journey, culminating in graduation as world prepared valedictorians, a proud moment for families, students, and staff as they begin their next chapter as confident young adults.

Simon Doyle
Principal