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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Working harder doesn’t automatically mean better results.
If your study patterns and habits are off, more hours just means more wasted energy.
Smart work beats long work every time.
Get ready to kickstart your HSC journey in 2026 with our annual January Study Bootcamp!
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Make these 3 changes to your HSC preparation and watch your results improve:
1️⃣ Be clear on why you’re doing the work and what you’re aiming for. For many, motivation doesn’t just appear.. you need to work on it.
2️⃣ Take small, consistent and proactive actions instead of cramming and hoping it sticks.
3️⃣ Practice questions and writing even before you are ready. Most students will avoid this action until the week before an exam.. this is where marks are gained.
Most students know what to study. Top performing students have learned HOW to train.
#hsc2026 #hscstudyskills #hsccoworks
Five reasons you’re not motivated.
Here’s the truth they don’t tell HSC students.
Motivation feels good, but it fades.
Discipline is what shows up on the days you don’t feel like it.
That’s what gets results in study and in life
Small changes in your study habits can completely change your HSC results.
Consistency > cramming.
Sydney students who fix the basics early always finish stronger. 📚