Board of Studies NSW Media releases
Ministerial media release
Thursday 16 February 2012
Record of School achievement to replace School Certificate
NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli today visited Concord High School with the Member for Drummoyne John Sidoti MP to announce that he will introduce legislation to create the Record of School Achievement (RoSA), a credential for students leaving school prior to receiving their HSC.
“In August last year I announced that the School Certificate would be abolished,” Mr Piccoli said.
“The introduction of the RoSA represents the most significant change to secondary schooling in over a decade and will replace a credential first introduced in 1965.”
Fully implemented the RoSA will:
- Be a record of the full range of student achievements right up to the day they do their HSC or leave school
- Provide an electronic record of achievements that students can use at any time
- Use assessment by teachers in schools, moderated by the Board of Studies NSW to ensure reliability and fairness of grades
- Provide the capacity to record vocational courses and students’ vocational experiences as well as citizenship and leadership achievements such as First Aid courses, community languages courses and Duke of Edinburgh awards
- Offer on-line literacy and numeracy tests, with particular emphasis on work readiness, that students will be able to undertake twice a year from next year.
“Much has changed since 1965, and students want up to date information on their school achievements at the point that they need it,” said Mr Piccoli.
“The RoSA will be available electronically and as a verifiable hard copy on demand with the most up-to date information on a student’s achievements, across all subjects and a range of extra-curricular activities.
“The Board of Studies NSW has consulted widely with the teaching and broader community to ensure the RoSA balances the need to encourage students to stay at school for their HSC, while still offering a meaningful credential to those who choose to leave earlier.”
Mr Piccoli said the formal RoSA credential would be awarded to eligible students who choose to leave school prior to receiving their HSC, while still allowing students to view and download a transcript of their achievements when applying for jobs or further education or training.
Further details on implementation will be provided by the Board of Studies NSW throughout 2012.
Record of School achievement to replace School Certificate (PDF)
Ministerial media release
Wednesday 21 December 2011
NSW leading in Science Enrolments
NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli today confirmed New South Wales is leading the country in science enrolments in Year 12.
“Since 2001 NSW has had an increase in all its HSC science courses and a 21 per cent increase in enrolments for all the science courses combined,” the Minister said.
“This means NSW has bucked the trend of fewer students enrolling in science, not only in Australia, but in comparison to all OECD countries.
“NSW schools offer a proven and effective curriculum that encourages students to choose science electives in years 11 and 12.“In 2011, 33 008 students out of a total of 72 391 were enrolled in at least one HSC science course.”
Biology was the second most popular elective with more students enrolled in it than in Business Studies.
Chemistry and Physics are also top rating HSC electives.
“This is an important reflection of the education system’s ability to sustain enrolments in science at a time when more and more students are continuing to senior high school and opting for vocationally-orientated courses.
“It is also testament to the quality of science teaching in NSW schools,” the Minister said.
NSW leading in Science Enrolments (PDF)
Today’s HSC results: online and on time
14 December 2011
At midday today the state’s HSC students had checked their HSC results almost 84 000 times in total, with more than 70 per cent of these via the web.
As well as in NSW, students have been accessing their HSC results from countries around the world, including: the United States, China, South Korea, Malaysia, Canada, Japan, the Philippines, Turkey, the UK, Austria, Fiji, Germany, India, Pakistan, Lebanon, New Zealand, Singapore, the Solomon Islands and Thailand.
Of the 71 415 HSC students who completed at least one HSC course this year:
- 66 097 – 92 per cent – are eligible to be awarded the NSW Higher School Certificate; that is they have successfully undertaken at least 10 units of study.
- Most of the remaining 5318 students – 7 per cent – will continue their HSC studies as part of accelerated or other learning programs.
- 54 922 students – approximately 83 per cent – will be eligible for an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank or ATAR
- More than 1 in 3 – 24 144 or 37 per cent of students – are eligible to be awarded a HSC as well as completing a Vocational Education and Training or VET course. This has increased from 23,190 students in 2010.
Of these, 9472 students – up from 8178 in 2010 – will receive an HSC and a VET Certificate II or above.
"The release of the 2011 HSC results highlights the flexibility of the HSC credential in opening the way to further study and employment," President of the Board of Studies, Tom Alegounarias, said.
"2011 HSC results confirm the high quality of the HSC as the number of students remain stable.
"In particular, when compared to HSC results in 2010, they indicate maintenance of rigorous standards and stability in student achievement," Mr Alegounarias said.
As well, students from across NSW have been honoured in the four 2011 HSC merit lists, published on the Board’s website.
The HSC Results Inquiry Centre also opened today. This hotline offers a valuable opportunity for students to talk with experienced Board staff about any aspect of their results. Call 13 11 12 for 30 cents from a landline.
Today’s HSC results: online and on time (PDF)
Release of HSC results
14 December 2011
The NSW Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli said today that there had been almost 84 000 instances of HSC results being accessed online or by SMS.
More than 70 per cent were over the internet while more than 21 000 students had registered to receive their results via SMS, more than double the 2010 figure.
"In 2011, 71 415 students are eligible to receive a result for an HSC course,” said Mr Piccoli.
"Over 83 per cent of students receiving their full HSC will be eligible to apply to university with an ATAR - the ranking system used by universities to select students.
"That is an outstanding result and is a great reflection on the quality of the HSC.
"These students should all be congratulated for the hard work they have put in over the last two years.
"The fact that so many students have chosen to receive their results over the internet or by SMS is a clear indication of how important the HSC is to them as a qualification.
"To those students who haven't yet made a firm decision about what they want to do in the next stage of their lives, or to those students who did not get the result they were hoping for, it is important to remember that the HSC is not the end of the world.
"I would encourage those students to take the time to speak to their careers advisor or specialists in further education and training. There is a huge range of options available to young people leaving school. Persevere, and you will find the right one for you."
The Board of Studies HSC Results Inquiry Line is currently open on 131112 (calls must be made from a landline and are charged at the cost of a local call).
HSC results and merit lists out tomorrow
13 December 2011
71 415 Higher School Certificate students will be able to access their results from 6am on Wednesday December 14.
Most are expected to check their results online by going to www.hscresults.nsw.edu.au or www.hsc-results.nsw.edu.au or using a link on the Board of Studies homepage, http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au.
It is also possible to get results via SMS – text a student number followed by a space and then the HSC PIN to 0427 659 900 – or by phone on 1300 669 248. Internet access fees and call charges can apply.
"This is a very exciting time for many HSC students and their friends and family,” the chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW, Carol Taylor, said.
"While some might approach finding out how they went with an dose of confidence and a little touch of trepidation, the most important thing is that they feel proud of having gotten this far.
"It’s a wonderful opportunity too, to acknowledge and congratulate the outstanding achievers named on the 2011 HSC merit lists," she said.
December 14 also sees the naming of the 2011 All-round Achievers, Top Achievers in Course, and Distinguished Achievers. They will join the First in Course achievers - named at a special presentation the day before – on this year’s HSC honour roll.
The All-round, Top and Distinguished achievers lists will be published on the Board’s website from 12 noon on Wednesday and the First in Course from 12 noon Tuesday.
The HSC Results Inquiry Centre opens on December 14. This hotline offers a valuable opportunity for students to talk with experienced Board staff about any aspect of their results. Call 13 11 12 for 30 cents from a landline phone.
HSC results and merit lists out tomorrow (PDF)
HSC First in Course
13 December 2011
With HSC results released to over 71,000 NSW students tomorrow, a handful have been able to celebrate early with the news they have topped the state in one or more courses.
NSW Minister for Education, Adrian Piccoli announced the 107 First in Course recipients at a ceremony attended by many of the students and their families today at the Australian Technology Park in Eveleigh.
"The HSC is a world-class credential, and its important that we acknowledge these students who have worked so hard to reach the top of their courses," said Mr Piccoli.
"Of course, behind every good student, there is almost always a patient, understanding and supportive group of family and teachers. Today's ceremony is an acknowledgement of their efforts too."
Highlights from this year's First in Course list include:
- Equal first place was given in six of the 116 courses for which there were First in Course awards in 2011.
- Eight students received a First in Course Award for more than one course, with one student topping three courses.
- Nearly two-thirds of all First in Course recipients in 2011 are female.
- Over 20 students on the First in Course list live in regions outside of Sydney including: Molong, Nyngan, Finley, Port Macquarie, Hillston, Corndale, Albury, Ballina and Taree.
Mr Piccoli said that the diversity of students and courses showcased in the ceremony was a reflection on the success of the HSC.
"It used to be that the HSC was seen as just a pathway to university, and obviously it still retains that important role. Around 83% of HSC students in NSW are eligible to receive an ATAR – which is the entrance requirement for university.
"Today, the HSC continues to expand and offer students relevant and contemporary options.
"We've seen students accept awards today in subjects as diverse as Aboriginal Studies, Electrotechnology and Business Services, as well as a range of courses in the more traditional areas such as English, Maths and Science.
"This is a proud day for these students, their families and their teachers and on behalf of the NSW Government, I want to wish them all the very best for the future," said Mr Piccoli.
HSC results will be delivered to students from 6am tomorrow through the internet, SMS and telephone.
Instant results: your guide to HSC marks
28 November 2011
The countdown to the release of 2011 Higher School Certificate results is on.
For more than 72 000 students the big day dawns at 6am on Wednesday December 14 when HSC results will be available online or via SMS and telephone.
Higher School Certificate summaries arrive in the mail on Friday December 16 and award documents on January 10.
"For many the results of the HSC will help determine future studies and careers," said Carol Taylor, chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW.
"It’s important to remember that HSC results are more than just an exam mark.
“They reflect a student’s achievements across the entirety of their course.
“HSC results allow a student to see how their achievements compare to other students doing the same course, not just in 2011, but from year-to-year.
"The Board wishes everyone all the very best for their HSC results," Ms Taylor said.
Here's a quick guide to HSC results and services:
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Assessment rankings
Assessment rankings show the order in which a school ranks students in each HSC course they have undertaken. They are based on assessments undertaken throughout the year.
They are now available at Students Online; www.studentsonline.nsw.edu.au.
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HSC results online
From 6.00am on December 14 two websites will link directly to HSC results. They are www.hscresults.nsw.edu.au and www.hsc-results.nsw.edu.au. The Board’s homepage - www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au – will also carry a link to results.
From December 15 Students Online - www.studentsonline.nsw.edu.au - will host HSC results.
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HSC results by SMS
Register now to receive HSC results via SMS from 6am on December 14 by texting the student number and PIN to 0427 659 900. A return message confirms successful registration. Service provider charges can apply.
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Automated telephone service
Call 1300 669 248 and follow the voice prompts from 6am on December 14 to receive HSC results over the phone. The average cost of a call from a landline in NSW is 30 cents.
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HSC Results Inquiry Centre
The Board's Results Inquiry Centre opens at 8am on December 14 to answer questions about final results and the processes used to determine them. From December 15 it operates from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and is closed on public holidays and from 12 noon on Christmas and New Years Eve until April 27.
Call 13 11 12 on a landline for 30 cents from anywhere in NSW.
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HSC Results Check Service
The Results Check Service can confirm if a result is processed correctly. It is available from December 15 until April 27 via Students Online. It costs $29 for English Standard and Advanced, and $15 for all other courses that have final written exams.
From December 19 students can order their raw marks for each paper as well as request a copy of their exam responses. The raw mark service is $5.25 per course while responses cost $31 a course. This is in addition to the result check fee.
A student number and HSC PIN are essential to access results on December 14.
Forgotten PINs can be retrieved via Students Online – www.studentsonline.nsw.edu.au - or reissued over the phone. Call the Board of Studies on 9367 8001 between 8.30am - 5pm Monday to Friday.
Instant results: your guide to HSC marks (PDF)
156 000 students…and counting!
011 November 2011
By 5.00pm on Friday November 11, an estimated *156 000 students will have sat written and practical exams for the 2011 New South Wales Higher School Certificate and School Certificate.
HSC and SC practical and written exams were held in more than 820 venues – schools, colleges, universities, even hospital wards and embassies – across New South Wales and around the world in international schools in Asia and in locations as far afield as Pakistan, Qatar and The Netherlands.
Final HSC exams began at 9.00am on Tuesday August 2 with oral language exams in Vietnamese and will end at 2.15pm on Friday November 11 with the written Design and Technology exam.
More than 33 000 HSC students undertook practical exams between August 2 and September 17. These exams included oral language skills, performances in dance, drama, and music, and the submission of major projects for courses such as Industrial Technology, Visual Arts, Society and Culture, and English Extension.
More than 70 000 HSC students will have sat for 117 different written exam papers over 18 days between October 17 and November 11. Since its introduction in 1967, English has remained the only compulsory HSC course while Mathematics remains the most popular elective.
2011 sees the last School Certificate tests. The SC was first issued in 1965. This year more than 86 000 students will sit for five compulsory SC tests over three days between Monday November 7 and Friday November 11.
Throughout the exam period the Board employs up to 10 000 additional staff. They include more than 820 exam centre managers, more than 7000 markers and more than 1000 support staff.
Students read from more than 14 million exam pages printed on Forest Stewardship Council certified paper. They submit more than 6 million writing booklets and answer sheets. These days millions of these pages are scanned to facilitate onscreen marking in 15 centres throughout NSW.
To produce exam results for both the HSC and SC, the Board’s computer system processes approximately 45 million marks.
“Running HSC and School Certificate exams is a phenomenal undertaking,” chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW, Carol Taylor, said.
“We wish to congratulate and thank everyone who participates: students, teachers, and exam supervisors as well as people across the community – especially parents and other caregivers – who support their children and their schools, year in and year out,” Ms Taylor said.
HSC assessment rankings are available from 4.00pm today. All HSC results will be released on Wednesday December 14.
SC results will be available to schools from Monday December 5.
* As of 1 September 2011, there were a total of 162 882 students enrolled in at least one HSC or SC course; 72 391 HSC students and 90 491 SC students. Not all HSC courses have exams and not all HSC or SC students are in years 12 or 10.
HSC media guide | School Certificate media guide
156 000 students…and counting! (PDF)
Countdown to HSC written maths exams
21 October 2011
Monday marks the start of HSC written maths exams.
Mathematics and Mathematics Extension 2 will be held on Monday October 24, General Mathematics on Tuesday October 25, and Mathematics Extension 1 on Wednesday October 26.
“Even though maths is not a compulsory HSC course, it remains one of the most popular,” said the chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW, Carol Taylor.
“In 2011 there are 55 103 students are enrolled in at least one HSC maths course.
“Almost 17 000 students are enrolled in Mathematics while more than 32 000 are enrolled in General Mathematics, giving it the largest enrolment outside of the only compulsory HSC course, English.
“The Mathematics course provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of high level maths that is needed for university studies in areas such as life sciences, finance, technology, and education.
“General Mathematics is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills that can be applied to everyday activities and in the workplace. It creates a basis for future pathways in vocational training and is key to some tertiary studies, ranging from business to nursing.
“Extension courses are for students who show a high ability during their secondary schooling. The mathematics extension courses provide students with the opportunity to develop a thorough understanding of further aspects of mathematics for tertiary studies, including in mathematics itself, the physical sciences, and engineering,” Ms Taylor said.
As well as the maths exams, on Monday October 24 there are written exams in Agriculture and 20 languages including Armenian, Polish and Vietnamese.
On Tuesday October 25 there are also written exams in Classical Greek, Chinese, German, Electrotechnology, and Textiles and Design.
On Wednesday October 26 there are also written exams in Arabic, and Studies of Religion.
This year there are 72 391 students enrolled in at least one HSC course. Most will sit for at least one of 117 different written exams being held in more than 760 exam centres between October 17 and November 11.
Countdown to HSC written maths exams (PDF)
Written English HSC exams start tomorrow
17 October 2011
Written exams for the only compulsory Higher School Certificate course, English, begin at 9.20am on Tuesday, October 18.
"HSC English aims to help students develop skills to evaluate and appreciate contemporary works, including film and television, as well as the classics such as Shakespeare,” chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW, Carol Taylor said.
"Australian writers such as Peter Carey, Judith Wright, and Tim Winton feature strongly.
“Of course, a high level of literacy is required to undertake an HSC English course,” Ms Taylor said.
A total of 67 880 students are enrolled in at least one HSC English course this year.
English Standard has the largest HSC course enrolment with 34 929 students and English Advanced the third, with 27 289 students. General Mathematics has the second largest enrolment of HSC courses with 32 104 students.
Not all English courses have external HSC exams.
The four that do are English Standard, English Advanced, English as a Second Language – all of which have their first papers on Tuesday and their second the following day, Wednesday October 19 – and English Extension 1 which is examined on October 31.
Students studying English Standard and Advanced sit for the same paper on Tuesday and different papers on Wednesday.
Tuesday's two-hour paper for English Standard and Advanced has three parts: short answer questions about unseen texts, a composition on or adaption of a studied text, and an essay based on the area of study, Belonging. The English as a Second Language or ESL exam, which goes for 90 minutes, has two parts. They are short answers based on unseen texts and an essay.
On Wednesday students enrolled in English Standard complete three essays in two hours, one each on Experience through language, Close study of a text, and Texts and society. English Advanced students also write three essays in two hours. They are based on Comparative study of texts and content, Critical study of texts, Representation and Text. ESL students do two essays based on Experience through language and Texts and Society in one hour and then answer questions based on an audio recording for 30 minutes.
The HSC is the highest educational achievement in secondary education in NSW. In 2011 there are 72 391 students enrolled in at least one HSC course. Most, but not all students are in Year 12, and not all HSC courses have external written examinations.
2011 HSC online media guide: http://bit.ly/r9lq8K
Figures based on enrolments as of 1 September 2011.
Written English HSC exams start tomorrow (PDF)
HSC written exams start Monday
for immediate release: 14 October 2011
The 2011 Higher School Certificate written exams kick off at 9.25am this Monday October 17 with Business Studies and Classical Greek Continuers.
Business Studies has the sixth largest enrolment of all HSC courses with 14 995 students. Fifty-one per cent are male, 49 per cent female.
The three-hour exam has four sections: multiple choice, short answer questions, business report, and an essay.
“The Business Studies course aims to help students participate effectively in a corporate environment as well as make informed choices about the impact of business on their daily lives,” the chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW, Carol Taylor, said.
“It also develop skills in research, analysis, problem solving, decision making, critical thinking and communication, all of which are invaluable when applied to other studies and exploring career options,” she said.
Business Management and Change, Financial Planning and Management, Marketing, Employment Relations, and Global Business are the five topics studied in HSC Business Studies.
There are 17 students enrolled in HSC Classical Greek Continuers. Classical Greek language, literature and culture have contributed much to the modern world. Continuers students are typically those who have undertaken between 200-400 hours of study in that language by the start of Year 11.
This three-hour exam asks students to translate prose and verse into English, and answer short and long response questions based on prescribed and an unseen text.
The first day of the HSC written exams also features Drama at 1.55pm and Chinese Beginners at 2pm.
Drama has 4807, mostly female, students enrolled. Chinese Beginners has 27 students enrolled.
Written exams for English, the only compulsory HSC course, begin on Tuesday October 18.
The Higher School Certificate is the highest educational achievement in secondary education in New South Wales.
It is awarded to students who have satisfactorily completed the equivalent of two years of prescribed study and in doing so, satisfactorily completed assessments and external examinations. Most candidates are awarded the HSC at the end of Year 12.
The Board of Studies written exams account for up to 50 per cent of most HSC candidates’ final results.
In 2011 there are 72 391 students enrolled in HSC courses.
HSC written exams start Monday (PDF)
New HSC media guide now online
A new media-only guide to the 2011 HSC is now online at the Board of Studies NSW website.
It features key dates, the written exam timetable, newly released enrolment statistics, and information on marking and results.
This page can also be accessed by choosing the News and Media tab in the yellow column that runs down the left side of the Board's homepage.
Click either 2011 HSC media guide under News and Media or the link on right side of the page News and Media opens.
Please note: the deadline for registering for access to an exam venue on the first two days of the written HSC – Business Studies on October 17 and English on October 18 – is close of business this Wednesday, October 12.
Please see the link Guidelines for media – for more on accessing exam centres, student and papers.
More than 72 000 enrolled for the 2011 HSC
Tuesday 11 October 2011
Minister for Education, Adrian Piccoli, today announced 72,391 students are enrolled in this year’s Higher School Certificate. This is the largest number of students to date.
Written exams, which account for up to 50 per cent of results in many HSC courses, begin next Monday October 17 and conclude on Friday November 11.
More than 760 exam centres in Australia and around the world will be the venue for 117 different exam papers.
"The HSC is a major investment in the future of New South Wales," said Minister Piccoli.
“While the HSC remains a vital introduction to university studies, it has now evolved into a world class credential that encourages students to explore a wide range of subjects that suit their interests, abilities, and potential career paths.
“Students no longer need to leave school to begin to develop the skills and knowledge essential to a successful and rewarding role in the workforce.
"Approximately 30 per cent of all HSC students are enrolled in a VET course and will gain nationally recognised employment qualifications along with their HSC," Mr Piccoli said.
The Higher School Certificate is the highest educational achievement in secondary education in New South Wales.
"The NSW Government is committed to the delivery of courses that help every student realise their potential and an education system that is equitable," Minister Piccoli said.
More than 72 000 enrolled for the 2011 HSC (PDF)
HSC: for parents…
4 October 2011
Are you the parent of an HSC student and want to know more about your child’s studies?
“NSW HSC online is a great source of information not just for students and teachers, but also for parents,” said Carol Taylor, chief executive of the Board of Studies NSW.
"The parents' page provides information on supporting your child through their exams, HSC assessment procedures, reporting of HSC results, and options beyond the HSC.
“Parents will also want to make sure their child is familiar with the site’s study tips and resources for more than 50 HSC courses.
"Information is also available in a number of community languages, including Arabic, Chinese and Turkish,” Ms Taylor said.
NSW HSC online is developed by Charles Sturt University and is one of the Board’s partner websites. Its web address is http://hsc.csu.edu.au and the parents' page can be found at http://hsc.csu.edu.au/for_parents.
The HSC written exams start on Monday 17 October and conclude Friday 11 November.
… and HSC: for students
Here's some last-minute tips from the Board of Studies NSW for students sitting for this year's written HSC exams:
- make sure you have your personal exam timetable. Log onto Students Online http://studentsonline.bos.nsw.edu.au
- check what you can take into the exam room. Water is permitted, but not mobile devices such as phones, MP3 players, and electronic dictionaries. See the Board's website for a comprehensive equipment checklist http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/hsc_exams/equipment-checklist.html
- use the content and outcomes for each syllabus to see if you have covered everything you need to learn. They are online at http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/syllabus_hsc.
- take advantage of the exam papers, marking guidelines, and sample answers from the 2010 HSC. They can be found at http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au/hsc_exams/hsc2010exams/
- be proud that you've already completed at least fifty per cent of your HSC assessment through class-based assignments, and performance and project exams.
Official online guide for 2011 HSC students
12 September 2011
The Board of Studies NSW today launched its new online guide for 2011 Higher School Certificate students.
“Tips and Tools on the Students Online website helps students prepare for next month’s written tests,” said the Board’s chief executive, Carol Taylor.
“It offers study tips and materials, a guide to what can be taken into the exam room, and what to expect in the exam papers.
“It also links to the HSC Rules and Procedures handbook, which is vital reading for all students, and advises what to do if illness or any form of misadventure affects a student’s ability to complete an exam paper.
Read the full media release – Official online guide for 2011 HSC students
Minister announces delay of classroom implementation of Australian curriculum
9 August 2011
The NSW Education Minister, the Hon. Adrian Piccoli, announced today that the implementation of the Australian curriculum in NSW will be delayed with schools not required to teach the new K -10 English, Mathematics, Science and History syllabuses until 2014.
Mr Piccoli said that the new timeframe will allow sufficient time for the syllabuses to be finalised, and for teachers to prepare for implementation.
All four K-10 syllabuses are currently in draft form and the Board of Studies schedule of consultations will not be affected by the announcement.
Read the Minister for Education’s media release – NSW to delay implementation of Australian Curriculum (PDF)
Government to Abolish School Certificate
4 August 2011
NSW Education Minister, Adrian Piccoli, announced today that the School Certificate will be abolished from 2012.
“The external tests currently administered to all Year 10 students will not continue after this year.
Mr Piccoli said that the decision was made as a result of consultation undertaken by the Board of Studies with key stakeholder groups representing principals, teachers, parents and all school sectors.
Read the full media release – Government to Abolish School Certificate (PDF)
Top students selected for HSC exhibitions
22 December 2010
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth has announced more than 500 HSC students have been chosen for this year's annual HSC exhibitions.
The annual HSC showcase events - ARTEXPRESS, Callback, DesignTECH, ENCORE, OnSTAGE, and Texstyle - feature outstanding performances and projects by HSC dance, drama, music, visual arts, design and technology and textile and design students.
Ms Firth said the selected students deserved congratulations and encouraged schools and the general public to attend the exhibitions in the new year.
Read the full media release – Top students selected for HSC exhibitions (PDF)
HSC results released today
15 December 2010
Higher School Certificate (HSC) results were released for a record 71,000 students at 6am this morning.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said students and parents across NSW would be glad the wait for results was finally over.
“Completing the HSC is an important milestone, and students should be extremely proud of their hard work,” Ms Firth said.
Read the full media release – HSC results released today (PDF)
HSC students celebrate being first in course
14 December 2010
The Minister for Education and Training Verity Firth has congratulated 107 of the state’s brightest students who have topped the state in their HSC courses for 2010.
“The annual First in Course ceremony is a wonderful way to celebrate our high achieving students,” Ms Firth said.
“First in Course demonstrates the diversity of our state’s top performing students and I wish them the very best for their future.”
Read the full media release – HSC students celebrate being first in course (PDF)
Students celebrate the end of HSC 2010
10 November 2010
The 2010 Higher School Certificate examinations finish today with more than 15,000 students completing their final exams.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, visited Mosman High School to personally congratulate students finishing their exams.
The last two exams, Science and Visual Arts, were conducted today.
“I applaud the record 71,310 HSC students for successfully navigating a month of rigorous exams. I wish all students the very best for the future.”
Read the full media release – Students celebrate the end of HSC 2010 (PDF)
School Certificate exams start for 90,000 students
8 November 2010
A record 90,000 Year 10 students start their first NSW School Certificate exams today.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, wished students the best of luck.
“The School Certificate is an important milestone for secondary students”, Ms Firth said.
Read the full media release – School Certificate exams start for 90,000 students (PDF)
HSC exams start today
14 October 2010
HSC exams start today for more than 17,000 NSW students.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said students of Business Studies and Classical Greek will pick up their pens at 9:25am this morning.
“I wish these students the very best of luck,” Ms Firth said.
“A record 71,000 NSW students will sit HSC exams in the coming weeks.
Read the full media release – HSC exams start today (PDF)
HSC exams for 2010 begin this week
10 October 2010
A record 71,000 students begin their final NSW Higher School Certificate exams this week.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, has wished all students the best of luck.
“To put things in context - if we gathered this year’s HSC students together the group would match the population of a big regional city like Coffs Harbour.
“Students have already obtained half of their HSC mark from their school based work.
Read the full media release – HSC exams for 2010 begin this week (PDF)
Review of NSW School Certificate
13 May 2010
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said today the NSW Board of Studies would review the Year 10 School Certificate as part of changes to the NSW school leaving age.
Read the full media release (PDF)
Spotlight on Top HSC Drama Students
21 December 2009
Minister for Education and Training Verity Firth today announced 60 HSC Drama students have been selected to perform in the 2009 OnSTAGE season.
Ms Firth said students were chosen from across the State for their exceptional individual and group performances, set and costume design, script writing, theatre review, promotion and program, and video drama.
“Congratulations to all of the HSC students selected to perform and exhibit in OnSTAGE, which will run from February 6 to 12 at Sydney’s Seymour Centre,” Ms Firth said.
Read the full media release (PDF)
On Your Marks: Top HSC Students Honoured Today
15 December 2009
Premier Kristina Keneally and Minister for Education and Training Verity Firth today congratulated 119 outstanding students who achieved first place in HSC courses this year.
The students, who came first in 111 HSC courses, were today recognised at an award ceremony at the Australian Technology Park in Sydney.
Read the full media release (PDF)
Innovative HSC Projects Chosen for DesignTECH
10 December 2009
An electronic signalling system for motorcycle riders, an equipment holster for paramedics and an easy-to-turn key for the elderly are among the outstanding HSC projects chosen to feature in this year’s DesignTECH exhibition.
Read the full media release (PDF)
Class of ’09 gear up for HSC
20 October 2009
Premier Nathan Rees said today this week’s HSC exams will provide students with world class qualifications from courses recognised internationally.
Read the full media release (PDF)
HSC and Careers Expo a success
- Watch the video featuring the Board of Studies at the Expo
- (video, approx. 3 mins)
Almost 10 000 students, parents and teachers attended the inaugural Sydney Morning Herald HSC and Careers Expo.
The Board of Studies was an active participant at the Expo between 15 and 17 May 2009.
An estimated 7000 students attended 18 Board seminars on Higher School Certificate courses and general topics, including exams and assessments, major works and projects and extended responses in English.
Several thousand students and their parents visited the Board’s stand as well as hundreds of teachers.
Visitors to the stand talked to Board staff about the HSC exams and assessments, watched demonstrations of Students Online and received copies of the 2009 HSC exam timetable.
Outstanding HSC designs come to Parkes
2 June 2009
A 2008 Higher School Certificate student from St John’s College, Dubbo, has been named the winner of a regional award for her design of a brightly coloured modular children’s storage system.
Sarah Brown, an HSC Design and Technology student, is one of four students from the Western region chosen to exhibit their major works in the regional exhibition of the HSC showcase, DesignTECH, at the Parkes Shire Library and Cultural Centre from 2 June to 12 June 2009.
Parkes DesignTECH Exhibition Media opportunity
26 May 2009
Media are invited to the opening of an exhibition of outstanding major design projects from the 2008 Higher School Certificate Design and Technology course on 2 June 2009.
The exhibition showcases outstanding works by students from across NSW, including four students from Western NSW.
Dr John Bennett named as recipient of prestigious award
19 May 2009
The Australian College of Educators has announced General Manager of the Office of the Board of Studies, Dr John Bennett, as the recipient of its highest state award, the Wyndham Medal.
Read the media release (PDF)
New President for the Board of Studies
13 May 2009
Minister for Education and Training, Ms Verity Firth today announced the appointment of Tom Alegounarias as the new President of the New South Wales Board of Studies.
Tom Alegounarias, currently Chief Executive for the Institute of Teachers, has been appointed President for a period of five years.
Read the media release (PDF)
Business Studies to start 2009 HSC
1 May 2009
Around 16,000 Business Studies students will start this year's Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams.
Launching the 2009 HSC exam timetable, the Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said the four week exam period will include 111 exams.
Read the media release (PDF)
Outstanding HSC designs on show in Newcastle
27 April 2009
Innovative designs and inventions by some of the State's best young designers go on show in Newcastle this week.
The designs of seven Central Coast and Hunter students are among the 22 projects featured in the DesignTECH exhibition, a showcase of HSC Design and Technology student works, at Newcastle Region Library.
Outstanding HSC designs come to Grafton
- Grafton DesignTECH exhibition
25 March 2009
A 2008 Higher School Certificate student from Bishop Druitt College (Coffs Harbour) has been named the winner of a regional award for his design of a multimedia wheelchair tray which can be used to play movies and music.
James Hargrave, an HSC Design and Technology student, is one of four Northern NSW students chosen to exhibit their major works in the regional exhibition of the HSC showcase, DesignTECH, at the Grafton Regional Gallery from 25 March to 19 April 2009.
Dishcloth couture wins People’s Choice at DesignTECH exhibition
23 March 2009
- Carlos Bouman receives the People’s Choice Award from Dyson’s Erica Galea
A striking couture gown made from dyed dishcloths has won the first ever People’s Choice Award at the HSC Design and Technology exhibition, DesignTECH.
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said the exhibition features innovative designs and inventions by 25 Design and Technology students who studied for their HSC in 2008.
Read the full media release (PDF, 1 pages, 44 KB)
Top music students in Opera House showcase
16 March 2009
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, has congratulated 20 of the state’s top music students who will perform in the prestigious ENCORE concert at Sydney Opera House today.
Ms Firth said ENCORE, which is always a sell-out event, was a tribute to the outstanding young musicians and composers who have studied for the Higher School Certificate in NSW.
Read the full media release (PDF, 3 pages, 64 KB)
Quality the key in 2010 HSC
23 February 2009
Quality rather than quantity is the key message for changes announced today to the 2010 NSW Higher School Certificate.
Minister for Education and Training, Ms Verity Firth said HSC students will now be provided with the approximate length expected for their exam essays.
Read the full media release (PDF, 2 pages, 48 KB)
Audits prove HSC special provisions are fair
21 February 2009
Minister for Education and Training today welcomed the findings of the two independent reports into the 2008 Higher School Certificate Special Examination provisions. The reports were by Walter Turnbull chartered accountants and Dr Jan Keightley, former Chief Executive of the Senior Secondary Assessment Board of South Australia
Rees to raise school leaving age to give students a better chance of a job
28 January 2009
The NSW Government will raise the school leaving age to ensure NSW students have a world-class education and improved opportunities to go to University or secure employment.
From 2010 all students in NSW will complete Year 10.
Read the full media release (PDF, 1 pages, 60 KB)
HSC Design Showcase Opens
19 December 2008
An outboard motor powered solely by a cordless drill and a system that allows farmers to monitor their property's water storage via their mobile phone are two of the innovative works on display at this years DesignTECH exhibition.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, today opened the exhibition and said outstanding designs by 25 HSC Design and Technology students have been selected for the prestigious 2008 DesignTECH exhibition.
Read the full media release (PDF, 5 pages, 60 KB)
Nervous wait ends for 67,000 HSC students
17 December 2008
A record 67,000 students will today be logging on, phoning in and receiving text
messages to access their HSC results.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said the HSC is an important
milestone in a young person's life.
Read the full media release (PDF, 2 pages, 52 KB)
Rees honours top HSC students
16 December 2008
Premier Nathan Rees today congratulated 112 outstanding students who achieved first place in a 2008 NSW HSC course.
The students, who came first in 110 HSC courses, were recognised at an award ceremony at the Australian Technology Park in Sydney.
This year's honoured students are from schools across Sydney and regional NSW, including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Illawarra, Hunter, Southern Highlands, Riverina, Western NSW and New England.
Read the full media release (PDF, 2 pages, 56 KB)
2008 School Certificate Results
11 December 2008
More than 88,000 students will today receive their results from the 2008 School Certificate.
The NSW Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said this year's performance in School Certificate builds on the strong performance in 2007.
Read the full media release (PDF, 2 pages, 52 KB)Brother John Taylor Memorial Prize
HSC students who have overcome significant hardship to attain academic excellence might be eligible for the Brother John Taylor Memorial Prize. Nominations close 19 December.
It’s the final ‘pens down’ for HSC Class of 2008
13 November 2008
The final examinations in the 2008 NSW Higher School Certificate finish today.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said a record 67,931 students were enrolled in HSC courses this year, most sitting for six written exams, which began a month ago.
2008 School Certificate tests start today
11 November 2008
As the Higher School Certificate exams draw to a close, a record 88,017 Year 10 students have been gearing up for the NSW School Certificate tests which start today (Monday 10 November 2008).
General Manager of the Office of the Board of Studies, Dr John Bennett, said Year 10 students would this week sit for statewide tests in English-literacy, Science, Mathematics, Australian History, Australian Geography, and Computing Skills.
State’s HSC students sit first English paper today
17 October 2008
The state’s Higher School Certificate students will today sit the first of two compulsory English exams.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, said a total of 64,509* students were enrolled in English courses in 2008. Read the full media release.
HSC Exams Start Today
16 October 2008
The NSW Higher School Certificate written examinations start this morning when more than 16,000 students will sit the Business Studies exam.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, today wished this year's record 67,931 HSC students 'all the best' as they embark on the last leg of their school journey. Read the full media release.
Keen Narromine HSC student awarded for study diligence!
24 September 2008
Jamie Wyatt, of Narromine High School, has been awarded a $50 University Co-op Bookshop voucher for using his Higher School Certificate Student ID and PIN to log in to the Board of Studies new Students Online website. Read the full media release
Minister Announces Record Numbers of HSC Students in 2008
22 September 2008
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth, today announced a record 67,931 students were enrolled in Higher School Certificate courses in 2008. Read the full media release.
2008 Media Guide
22 September 2008
A record number of students are enrolled in HSC courses this year. Written exams begin on 16 October 2008. Find out key enrolment trends by subject, statistics for each course and region, as well as information on support services and the release of results in the 2008 Media Guide. Read the full media release.
Consultation on proposed HSC improvements
2 September 2008
NSW Acting Minister for Education and Training, John Hatzistergos, today announced community consultation was now underway for proposed changes to the Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams and school assessments. Read the full media release.
Read and respond to HSC proposals
27 August 2008
The Board of Studies NSW is seeking your response to proposals about some aspects of HSC exam specifications and assessment tasks. Read the full media release.
No mobile phones or other devices in HSC exams
20 August 2008
There is no proposal to allow students to use mobile phones, iPods, or the internet during Higher School Certificate (HSC) examinations. Read the full media release.
Dance to kick off 2008 HSC exams
11 August 2008
Acting NSW Minister for Education and Training John Hatzistergos said today the first Higher School Certificate (HSC) examination of the year will begin today (11 August) with practical exams in Dance getting under way. Read the full media release.
HSC one-stop online study shop hits top 40
27 June 2008
HSC students, teachers and librarians have viewed more than 185,000 pages of information via the Board of Studies new Students Online website - less than one month after it was launched. Read the full media release.
HSC students flock to one-stop study shop!
25 June 2008
Seventeen year old Ashlee Walker of Beverly Hills Girls High School in Sydney's south was named the 1000th student to log on to the Board of Studies new Students Online website. Read the full media release.
New HSC one-stop online study shop
4 June 2008
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, will today (June 4) launch a one-stop online study shop for Higher School Certificate students - the first of its kind in Australia. Read the full media release.
New Website for HSC Students
4 June 2008
Higher School Certificate students have access to a new, highly functional and user-friendly web site following the launch today of Students Online – a one-stop shop for HSC resources and first of its kind in Australia. Read the full media release.
Proposed improvements to Higher School Certificate exams
21 May 2008
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, said today community consultation would be sought from next month on proposed improvements to Higher School Certificate examinations. Read the full media release.
Strengthening Australian literature in NSW schools
19 May 2008
Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has announced a plan by the Iemma Government to ensure every NSW student studies more Australian books, poems and plays will soon be open to comment by teachers and education groups. Read the full media release.
2008 HSC examination timetable released today
1 May 2008
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has announced the timetable for the 2008 Higher School Certificate examination will be made available to students, parents and teachers from 1 May. Read the full media release.
Tougher measures prevent cheating in the HSC
30 April 2008
The NSW Board of Studies will this week send all NSW schools a short statement on the academic honesty expected of their senior students. Read the full media release.
Outstanding HSC Designs come to Griffith
3 March 2008
The President of the Board of Studies, Professor Gordon Stanley, today said the Higher School Certificate exhibition of some of the State’s best young designers would be staged in Griffith this month. Read the full media release.
Remarkable students battle hardship and illness to earn their HSC
28 February 2008
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has today (28 February) presented special awards and paid tribute to two students who have battled tremendous hardship and severe illness during their HSC. Read the full media release.
New guide to make child learning as easy as ABC for parents
6 February 2008
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has launched a new guide to make it easier for parents to follow their children’s education and progress through their primary school years. Read the full media release.
HSC results are in … what now?
20 December 2007
Following the release of HSC exam results yesterday, NSW Year 12 students can discover their University Admissions Index number today, via the Universities Admission Centre website (www.uac.edu.au) from 9am.Read the full media release.
2007 NSW HSC: Record high achievers and a solid result overall
19 December 2007
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has congratulated more than 66,000 students who are today learning their 2007 Higher School Certificate results.Read the full media release.
2007 School Certificate results issued today
10 December 2007
NSW Year 10 students have performed strongly in this year’s mandatory School Certificate tests, the Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, said today. Read the full media release.
Showcase of outstanding HSC student designers
3 December 2007
Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has today (3 December) launched an exhibition of outstanding designs by HSC students at the Powerhouse Museum. Read the full media release.
Move to strengthen Australian literature in NSW schools
23 October 2007
Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, said today that he would be writing to the NSW Board of Studies requesting them to investigate a range of options to strengthen the study of Australian literature in the State's English curriculum. Read the full media release.
State's HSC students sit first English paper today
19 October 2007
The State's Higher School Certificate students will today sit for the first exam in English, the only compulsory subject in the HSC. Read the full media release.
Record number of students sit HSC exams in 2007
14 October 2007
NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, announced today that a record 67,189 students will be sitting for the Higher School Certificate which starts this week. Read the full media release.
Record number of students undertaking VET as part of their HSC
14 October 2007
Ahead of the commencement of HSC exams this week, NSW Minister for Education and Training, John Della Bosca, has released the 2007 HSC data, revealing a jump in the number of students undertaking vocational education in schools. Read the full media release.
HSC advice just a phone call away
8 October 2007
As the State's Year 12 students count down to the start of the written Higher School Certificate examinations, assistance will be just a phone call away with the opening of the 2007 HSC Advice Line this afternoon. Read the full media release.