Welcome to the start of your senior schooling journey. This is an exceptionally exciting time- a time when you have the responsibility to select a pattern of study that reflects your interests, your passions and your own pathway to a career and life beyond school. There is a lot to consider in this process. I have included a few pointers to get you thinking about your priorities and your options at this important junction in your schooling life.  

Year 11 and 12 studies are part of the Higher School Certificate certifications. All students undertaking Yr 11 and 12 will be eligible for a HSC (if you meet the minimum requirements) and will get a HSC certificate. Students who are ATAR eligible will be entitled to attain an ATAR based on subject selection in addition to the HSC certifications. An ATAR will provide you with access to a tertiary pathway- but know that there are many pathways open to all students. 

There are three focus areas that we encourage students to consider when making course selections for their senior pattern of study. 

Interest: Choose courses that interest you first and foremost. This is your chance to shape your pattern of study around subjects that build on your passions and areas of interest. By choosing subjects you enjoy it is more likely that you will find it easier to achieve success and sustain your motivation throughout the 2 years of study. 

Challenge: Choose courses that will challenge you and provide a stimulus for your learning growth. We encourage students to be resilient learners who strive to overcome the challenges in their learning and the demands of the subjects chosen, stretching themselves to be active participants in their learning journey. 

Realism: Whilst we encourage students to be challenged by their learning this must be aligned closely to a realistic perspective on course choice. If you have disliked Science and found Science really hard going in Stage 4 and 5, and have received poor grades across these stages,  it is not wise to be picking Physics, Chemistry or Biology as three of your core subjects in Year 12 because you have aspirations to be a medical engineer. We would encourage you to make contact with our Transition and Pathways Specialist to explore some more realistic career pathways that focus on your talents, strengths and interests.

My advice is simple- keep your options open. Select a pattern of study that opens many doors. The secret to success is not a mystery in Years 11 and 12- it all comes down to hard work. Students who persist in being consistent find success in the HSC. It is up to you! 

Our teachers at XHS are amazing- they will guide, support and challenge you throughout Yr 11 and 12. They will walk the journey with you- but know that this is your journey- you need to own it and that starts now by taking the time to explore the right subjects for you. 

Some courses will include grade cutoffs and some courses may include limited availability.

We encourage you to attend the Years 11 & 12 Course Selection Presentation & Expo that will take place on Wednesday 5th June (5.00pm to 6.30pm) in the SFX Centre to ensure that you are best prepared for this selection process. 

We wish you every success in this next stage of your schooling, 

Nicole Morton

Mrs Nicole Morton

Principal