It's Not Good Luck... It's Hard Work!

The View - Oct 25, 2024

Do you remember how nervous you were when you had to sit your final HSC exams? I certainly do. I recall putting so much pressure on myself that I woke up on the first morning of exams and couldn't stop vomiting. To this day, I don't know whether it was a gastro bug or simply nerves taking their toll. 

Some of our Year 12 students are now deep into their HSC exams, they are actually part of the largest cohort in Australian history to sit the HSC Exams! Thankfully, none of our amazing Avondale students have experienced the same pre-exam jitters and consequences as I did. 

We often say "good luck" to our children when they face challenges like exams, but the truth is, it's not about luck - it's about hard work, persistence, and determination. Ideally, we want to teach them that it is about the resilience and confidence needed to succeed in a high-pressure situation.

Remember the wise words of Winston Churchill: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." This quote encapsulates the spirit of a students journey. It's not about achieving a perfect score, but about demonstrating doing your best, the courage to persevere, to learn from setbacks, and to keep striving towards your goals. 

As Head of Secondary I am constantly amazed by our students, and right now, I am incredibly proud of our 2024 Year 12 graduates. Their hard work, dedication, and resilience has been inspiring. I have no doubt they will rise to the challenge of the HSC exams and do their very best. 

Our students also have the advantage of knowing they have got God on their side. Philippians 4:13 states that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," reminding us that with faith and community support from God, family and school, anything is possible. 

Whether your child is one of our seniors currently tackling the HSC or in a younger year preparing for upcoming assessments, here are some tips to help them through some of these potentially stressful and tough times: 

  • Encourage a balanced approach: While academics are important, remind your child they are more than just their exam results. Encourage them to maintain their usual routines, including exercise, social activities, and healthy eating habits.
  • Offer encouragement and positive reinforcement: Acknowledge their hard work and dedication. Remind them that they are capable and that their efforts will be rewarded.
  • Be a listening ear: Let them vent their anxieties and frustrations. Be a supportive presence, offering understanding and encouragement.
  • Provide a conducive study environment: Ensure they have a quiet, organised workspace and access to necessary resources.
  • Respect their space: Avoid hovering or pressuring them. Trust that they are capable of managing their time and studies effectively.

Connect with your children around the dinner table and find out what way you can support them when they are in the midst of challenging times.
Remind them that success at school and in the HSC, or any task, is not dependent on luck. It's a testament to hard work, persistence, and an unwavering belief.

We are incredibly proud of all our students' abilities and we are here to support them every step of the way. We pray that everyone has a happy and successful Term 4, and that our Year 12s can achieve their very best in their final exams. 

Mrs Hayley Ferris
Head of Secondary