Helping your child learn - ages 16+

Learning for 16+ | What they learn | Helping your child learn | About stages of learning 

Deciding which subjects to study in Year 11 is extremely important. Starting Year 11 provides advice on choosing subjects. The HSC Online Information gathering page provides additional information to assist in making these decisions. The Board of Studies provides a detailed booklet for students in year 10 who are planning on Studying for the NSW Higher School Certificate which will also be of interest to parents.

Study and research skills

Students in both the Preliminary and HSC courses are expected to be able to conduct independent research and devise their own study and homework programs.

It is really important for your child to use their time effectively and to be able to balance various commitments.

Effective study strategies ease the burden in Stage 6. Students also need help with research skills including finding, evaluating, communicating and reflecting on information. Helping with online research offers a guide to these skills.

HSC: All My Own Work is an important program designed to help Higher School Certificate students to follow the principles and practices of good scholarship.

Homework also helps students to develop research and time management skills. Advice on homework in languages other than English is also available through Translated documents: homework policy.

Support during the HSC

It is not just students who can find the HSC year very stressful and difficult . Family members also need support during the HSC year. The NSW HSC Online site provides a wealth of support for parents and carers of HSC students, including Living with an HSC student which outlines outlines strategies for the whole family.

Stress and exams identifies the symptoms of stress and suggests some management strategies.

Exam skills

It is important that HSC students are aware of the skills used in examinations. Exam preparation and strategies on the HSC Online site provides sound advice and links to a variety of relevant sites.

Exam practice

The NSW Board of Studies has past examination papers and marking guidelines for each subject. Online Multiple Choice is an application that allows students to test themselves in a range of subject areas (Note: requires Adobe Flash Player 10).

Remember if problems occur or you have any questions about the HSC and your child's learning, you should contact the school and arrange to talk with your child's teachers.