HSC University (ATAR) Pathway

The HSC ATAR Pathway

Students on the ATAR Pathway work towards the HSC and an ATAR for entry to university and other tertiary study. All courses on this pathway are Board Developed Courses, meaning each includes an external HSC examination that, together with school-based assessment, contributes to the student’s ATAR.

Choosing courses wisely

Course selection should be informed, not rushed. Students are encouraged to:

• choose courses they are interested in;
• choose courses they are good at;
• choose courses that will be useful or relevant for their intended future study or career;
• be realistic about workload and be prepared to work hard;
• ignore rumours about which subjects ‘scale’ best for the ATAR, and instead talk to people who know — subject teachers, the HSC/DP Coordinator and the Careers Adviser.

Subject lines and changes to subjects

Subject choices remain in accordance with the subject lines established by the Academy, which may vary from year to year depending on the composition and demands of a particular cohort. If a course does not attract sufficient numbers to run, it may be withdrawn and students will be asked to select an alternative. Students are only permitted to change courses after consultation with the relevant Head of Department and the HSC/DP Coordinator, and only after an adequate attempt has been made in the course.

Placement on the pathway is ongoing

Students offered placement in the University (ATAR) Pathway are expected to maintain a satisfactory level of academic performance, effort, application and attendance throughout their Stage 6 studies.

Placement on this pathway is not permanent. Students who fail to maintain satisfactory results, effort or application across any of their courses may be moved to the Careers (Non-ATAR) Pathway at any time during Year 11 or Year 12, in accordance with the Academy’s Promotions Policy and Senior Secondary Pathways Policy. Students who are moved to the Careers Pathway will continue to complete their HSC and will be supported in transitioning to work, TAFE or vocational training.

All students are encouraged to seek support from their teachers, Heads of Department, or the Head of Senior School if they are experiencing difficulty. Early intervention is key to ensuring students remain on track. For further information, refer to the Student Enrolment Policy and Promotions Policy on Policy Connect (accessible via the Staff and Student Handbook under School Links on the TASS Parent Lounge).

2027 — Year 11

Terms 1–3, 2027. Students must satisfactorily complete the Year 11 course before commencing the corresponding Year 12 course.

2028 — Year 12

Term 4, 2027 and Terms 1–3, 2028. Trial examinations in August 2028 (to be confirmed); HSC examinations in October 2028.