This year's higher school certificate (HSC) exams, which begin tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20, will be one like none other since it was introduced nearly 50 years ago.
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Exam rooms have been cleaned to strict government guidelines, and hand sanitiser mandatory to ensure both students and exam supervisors are remain COVID safe.
One hundred and seventy five Great Lakes College students will sit for this year's exams, which begins with English paper one (advance and standard) and finishes four weeks later on Wednesday, November 11 with design and technology followed by drama.
The NSW Education Standards Authority, which conducts the HSC, has assisted with extra exam supervisors where necessary, while the Department of Education has helped schools scope out alternative venues in case a student tests positive.
Schools have been advised to limit exam rooms to 75 students, requiring the college to source additional rooms to accommodate students.
Great Lakes College senior campus, Tuncurry principal, Davina Bowen extended her best wishes to the students with an inspiring quote from Nelson Mandela, "It always seems impossible until it is done'.
"Good luck to all Great Lakes College Year 12 students 2020 your resilience is proven."
Our students have done so well even to reach this point and I know they have these final few weeks covered.
- Stephen Bromhead
She said the exams would be conducted following COVID safe guidelines, rooms would be thoroughly cleaned after each session, while students would be required to bring their own hand sanitiser.
This year has brought new challenges for these students, Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead said as he wished students good luck
"But, they've adapted and I have no doubt they'll rise to the challenge as they begin sitting their HSC exams from tomorrow," Mr Bromhead said.
"Our students have done so well even to reach this point and I know they have these final few weeks covered.
Related: Free time for HSC students at the Y
"There is support all around you, make sure if you need help ask - there are online resources along with your friends and family ready to help.
"I also urge our seniors to remember that no matter their results there is a pathway they can take to reach their future goals,"
Mr Bromhead offered his advice to 2020 cohort: "Go in there and do you best but don't panic and don't stress because this is only the beginning of your life
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Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
