By Gabriella Payne
Most of us remember the pressures and challenges faced in our final years of school – but it’s safe to say that this year’s high school graduates have faced more than most.
Completing their VCE studies during a global pandemic was no easy feat, with lockdowns forcing students in and out of remote learning for the past two years.
Despite these challenges, the resilient Year 12 students across the state have all done an exceptional job and as they gear up for the announcement of their ATAR results at 7am on Thursday 16 December, it’s important to remember just that.
The Principal of Pakenham Secondary College, Ray Squires, said that no matter what each student’s ATAR score was, they had “all done really well” to finish Year 12 during these trying times and he congratulated them on their stellar efforts.
Other schools in the area shared Mr Squires’ sentiments.
The head of senior school at Beaconhills College’s Pakenham campus, Blair Cooper, said that while some students were nervously waiting for the big announcement, it was important to remember that an ATAR score wasn’t the be-all and end-all in life.
“The ATAR does not define your past or your future,” Mr Cooper said.
“There are an abundance of opportunities available to students no matter what their outcome this year and what their desired future pathway is. “Students should seek advice from their careers counsellors or tertiary institutions on what to do, regardless of the number,” he said.
The head of senior school at Beaconhills College’s Berwick campus, Jodie Bayley, agreed with Mr Cooper and reminded students that the sky was the limit when it came to their futures.
“You are greATAR than your ATAR,” she said.
All the best to each and every student and well done on getting through a tougher year than most!
