You Think You’ve Got It Tough?

May 20, 2015

As we reach the more difficult stages of the climb up Mount HSC it is both easy and common for students to start to feel like the challenge of the HSC is too much to cope with as they start to forget what is at the top of the mountain(Why they are climbing it) and instead focus on their immediate experience of being “over it”.

It might be worth reminding you at this point on what I believe the HSC is all about. It’s about dealing with a big challenge that is put on the table in front of you. It’s about saying “Hello Challenge, let’s do this”. This challenge can either push us around or we can embrace the challenge and take control of our situation.

If we embrace the challenge then students are able to create a path towards the peak of Mount HSC and remain in a “toward state” (a positive state). Conversely if a student says “this is all too hard” they will be put into an “away” state which disempowers students to be able to build there path to the top of Mount HSC.

When I came across this Ted talk by Amy Purdy this week, it reminded me of what is really possible if we believe that change really is possible for us (that is, having a growth mindset).

If Amy Purdy can achieve what she has then you can get to the top of your Mount HSC. I know you can.

Each week we put up motivational and inspirational videos to provide a different perspective on dealing with and overcoming challenges and obstacles.

Below is a screen shot of the student dashboard.

Student dashboard in the student portal

 

 

 

“Let’s Talk About the HSC”

The ultimate podcast for students and parents navigating the journey of the HSC. Presented by HSC CoWorks, each episode dives into the challenges and triumphs of the HSC experience, offering expert advice, study tips, and insights into achieving academic success.

Whether you’re preparing for exams, managing stress, or looking for ways to stay motivated, this podcast is your go-to guide for all things HSC. Join us as we chat with educators, students, and professionals to help you thrive during this important academic milestone!

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Year 11 exams are often the first time students realise something isn’t quite working.
❌Hours of study.. Still forgetting everything in the exam.
❌Understand it at home...But freeze under pressure.
❌Trying hard...But overwhelmed balancing every subject at once.
The reality is that succeeding isn’t just about working harder. It’s about learning how to prepare, how to study, and how to perform when it matters.
At HSC CoWorks, we coach students to build the habits, confidence and exam skills they’ll rely on for their Year 11 exams and throughout Year 12.
#hsccoworks #hsc2027 #year11 #year11exams #free14daytrial
Chatswood campus has had a glow up 🌟 
Bringing the good vibes with more whiteboards, greenery, and lighting creating a space you’ll want to be every week as we support you up Mount HSC! 
#hsccoworks #hsc2026 #coworks #hscstudy
Study comes differently to our students. Here at HSC Coworks we foster a culture of studying because we want to, not because we have to! Our coaches ensuring students are locked in for #hsctrials ! 
#hsccoworks #hsc2026 #hscmotivation
When students think about preparing for Year 12, they often picture buying new stationery, organising folders, or enjoying one last holiday before the “real work” begins. The reality is that the students who thrive in Year 12 don’t wait until the first day of school to get organised. They start before the year even begins. While many Year 11 graduates spend the holidays doing a very minimal amount, the highest-performing students use that time to build a foundation that gives them confidence, clarity and momentum from the very first week.
Read our 3 tips for getting ahead on the blog
#hsc20207 #hsccoworks #hscstudytips #conquermounthsc
Thinking of studying away from home for uni?? Here’s why taking the risk is so worth it!
Moving from Sydney to Canberra was one of the biggest shifts Tara has made in her life, and her honest advice?... “You have to get out of your comfort zone”! However the independence, the new routines, and the chance to meet new friends are absolutely worth the initial uncertainty. In this episode, Tara discusses her degree in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Philosophy - a brand new program at ANU - and also what campus life is really like. 
A must watch for anyone contemplating moving interstate for University next year!
#UniLife #hsccoworks #HSC2026 #ANU #canberravibes