With 25 years of teaching experience, Ms Peta Holmes has seen many HSC. Since joining Loreto Normanhurst in 2023, she has helped local students navigate their senior year.
As the Class of 2026 begins their HSC, Ms Holmes shares her insights for what students can expect, how to manage the year ahead, and the simple habits that make all the difference.
In Ms Holmes’ eyes, NESA is focusing on designing questions that require students to apply their knowledge, and limiting students ability to arrive with prepared responses.
From her Modern History classes, she’s already noticed a shift.
‘In 2024, we had a 15-mark question in the Core section with a very small source as a stimulus. That’s never happened before. I think it’s reasonable to expect that these types of questions, that students haven’t seen before, are likely to appear.’
By Year 12, most students have figured out how they learn best. Ms Holmes says collaboration is what takes study to the next level. She suggests turning casual study groups into structured sessions.
‘Creating a roster for someone in the group to take the lead and plan each session can mean that these groups become powerful for consolidating learning. They can be a space where students feel safe to challenge each other’s ideas and coach each other,’ she says.
Thousands upon thousands of young people take part in the HSC examinations, and many face similar pitfalls.
‘The biggest mistake is not having clear goals,’ Ms Holmes says. ‘In the same way an athlete has clear training program with goals they monitor to check their progress students should have the same plan and monitoring in place for their study in Year 12.’
PETA’S TOP TIPS
- Make a realistic timetable — include time for study and rest.
- Study with structure — planned study groups are powerful.
- Set goals and track them — measure your progress like an athlete.
- Stay up-to-date — keep class notes current to prevent last-minute stress.
- Listen to your teachers — they know the syllabus and the path to success.
At the end of Year 11, Ms Holmes asks her students to take stock.
‘Reflect on this year, what worked well for you? What didn’t work? What would you do differently? Keep doing what worked, make the changes you need to and set some clear goals,’ says Ms Holmes.
‘There are so many mixed messages out there either from social media, tutors, and the myths about the HSC. My advice is simple: listen to your teachers. They’re the ones who know what you need to do.’
