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Year 12 subject choices
Specialist Mathematics: I decided to partake in this subject because challenging myself was part of my goals, and I enjoyed math in high school and still do in university. It provides great preparation for university subjects, allowing you to have an edge over other students, but also making you someone that people are able to come to if they have questions, which allows friendships to bloom.
Mathematical Methods: I took this as it was required for some also doing Specialist Mathematics. This provided foundational knowledge for the above subject, and you would usually cover the basics for Specialists a week or two before you did it there. It liked it because it allowed you to talk to people who were maybe not as academically inclined, but still wanted to put themselves out of their comfort zone.
Physics: I took physics in an attempt to understand the world around me; how things moved, why things happened, what weird laws does the world follow. If I could do something again, I'd remember to NOT delete a section until I was ready to submit, it cost me a mark.
Chemistry: I chose this subject because I was interested in pursuing Chemical and Process Engineering in university. It also follows the same thought process as physics, where I wanted to know why and how things happened. If I could change things about this subject, it'd be the sheer amount of memorization required for the last unit, but luckily they have updated the syllabus to make it easier.
Engineering: This was a subject I chose because I thought it would lead me down the path to becoming an engineer. It certainly helped prepare me for the amount of reporting and documentation you need to do in university, and spanned subjects such as physics, chemistry, and included a lot of math.
Literature: I chose to do literature because I didn't like doing persuasive speeches. I wish I could have dealt with it and go with General English instead, but I missed out on the transfer window. I guess I just was stuck with the idea that I was good at writing about stories, not writing new ones.
Getting extra help
There were weekly morning and after school tutorials for each subject, which were run by different teachers according to the subject and the week. I barely attended them because they were just there if you had questions, but they were promoted at least once a week and were well known.
Readiness for life after school
I feel that the increasing workload offered by subjects specifically suited for high-achieving students helped prepare me for university, as the workload now is only slightly higher than in high school. The Head of Year 12 often organized sessions weekly where they brought in guests from different careers, universities, and pathways to offer insight and tips on how to get into and enjoy that path out of high school.
Subject range and curiosity
The school offered a range of distanced education subjects like languages and specialized classes. They also introduced students to university subjects, TAFE, VET, and certificate courses to help get a head-start for your future career. They are a great opportunity that I wish I had taken advantage of.
Bullying and getting to school safely
The school has its principal exit and 3 or so minor exits along the main road in front of the school. There were always teachers or aides observing students as they left to keep them from running recklessly onto the road. I personally experienced minor harassment from students during my junior years. The school had adequate services and support, but I personally didn't use them as I didn't think I needed to. It was very safe getting to school, as there are many public busses that take students to/close to the school, but it does get crowded on busses and pathways close to the main road when everyone leaves.
Camps and excursions
My favorite moment from a school camp was when we had to cross a thin, wobbly bridge over a body of water. We started from opposite sides and had to pass each other when we were in the middle. These activities helped to get to know other students, and to help them out when they are struggling.
Something only students would know
Not much happened in the school that parents wouldn't hear about from students or general announcements, but I'd say the best tradition was was during Year 11, you have the opportunity to do the 'Leap of Faith'. This involves hitting a bell a few meters in front of you. this doesn't seem too hard, but you are also leaping from a ledge about 7 to 8 meters above the ground. You are safely attached to secure climbing equipment, and you wear a full body harness, but it still feels daunting when you leap.
Coaching and chances to compete
They didn't have any coaches for the sports I played, but I was able to play in chess competitions a few times when they included our school in Year 12.
Chances to take part in the arts
The school had ample opportunities to enhance your creativeness and arts abilities, even competitions hosted by the school.
- Played sport: Yes
- Sports played: Chess, Tennis
- Did an arts activity: No
- Emphasis on academics ◆◆◆◆◇
- Quality of academic resources ◆◆◆◇◇
- How healthy the tuckshop is ◆◆◆◇◇
- Investment in sports facilities ◆◆◆◇◇
- Quality of arts teachers ◆◆◆◇◇
- Focus on showcasing talent ◆◆◆◆◇
