Navigating the HSC
March 19, 2025 • 3 min read
The Winning Combination of Strategy and Collaboration
The Higher School Certificate (HSC) represents the culmination of 13 years of education for thousands of students across NSW. The 2024 results highlight not only academic excellence but also the crucial role of collaboration in achieving success. At Kinross Wolaroi School, we believe that both strategic individual effort and strong peer support are key ingredients in our students' achievements.
What Can We Learn from the 2024 HSC Results?
The 2024 HSC results showcased the resilience, dedication, and academic strength of students across the state. With 57,194 students in NSW receiving an ATAR—a significant increase from 2023—this cohort was one of the largest in recent history.
A Snapshot of the 2024 ATAR Results
- 17.8% of students achieved an ATAR of 90.00 or higher.
- The median ATAR rose slightly to 71.55, with female students attaining a median of 72.40 and male students 70.40.
- 49 students attained the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.
- 35.5% of students achieved an ATAR of 80 or higher.
Subject Selection and Scaling Insights
Earning an ATAR of 99.95 is an extraordinary feat, with only 49 students achieving this distinction. These students excelled across a broad range of subjects, with 34 different HSC courses represented among top achievers. This diversity underscores the importance of selecting subjects based on individual strengths and interests.
Subjects such as Mathematics Extension 1 and 2, Physics, and Chemistry continued to scale strongly due to the strong performance of students who typically choose these courses, but high scaling doesn’t guarantee success. Success ultimately comes from choosing subjects that align with a student’s abilities, enthusiasm and self-motivation.
The Role of Teamwork in Academic Success
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
While the HSC is often seen as an individual pursuit, success is rarely achieved alone. At Kinross Wolaroi School, collaboration is at the heart of our learning community, and our students thrive when they support one another.
The Power of Peer Support
Whether it’s on the sports field, in a musical ensemble, or in the classroom, teamwork fosters achievement. Much like a bowler relies on their fielders or a rugby player depends on their teammates, students benefit from working together academically. Peer discussions, group study sessions, and collaborative problem-solving are all proven strategies that enhance learning outcomes.
A common misconception among students is that internal assessment rankings create competition within a cohort. However, this belief overlooks an important truth: success is not a zero-sum game. One student achieving their best possible results does not disadvantage others—rather, when an entire cohort performs at a high level, everyone benefits.
Advice for Future HSC Students
Choose Wisely: Select subjects that align with your strengths and passions.
Develop Effective Study Habits: Regular study and a balanced workload can make a significant difference. READ MORE
Stay Consistent: Maintain a strong foundation across all subjects and remember that English always counts towards your ATAR.
Seek Guidance: Teachers and mentors provide invaluable support—utilise their expertise.
Set Goals: Use school academic resources to establish and track realistic targets.
Embrace Teamwork: Work with your peers to reinforce knowledge and boost confidence.
Rising Together
"Be part of the tide that lifts all boats."
The journey to HSC success is not just about individual achievement—it’s about lifting each other up. When students challenge and support one another, they raise the standard for the entire cohort.
At Kinross Wolaroi School, we encourage our students to see their peers as allies rather than competitors. The better everyone does, the better everyone does. By fostering a culture of academic excellence and collaboration, we empower our students to reach their full potential—not only as individuals but as a united team.
