HSC study tips and Science challenges engage region’s high school students

More than 1100 of the region’s high schools students will descend on Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus this week for two major annual activities: the HSC Study Day (June 6) and the Northern Rivers Science and Engineering Challenge (June 5 and 6).

The HSC Study Day and the Northern Rivers Science and Engineering Challenge are key community events on the University’s calendar. Both provide students with an opportunity to learn important skills and information while familiarising themselves with campus life.

HSC Study Day
The region’s year 12 students will get to spend valuable time with HSC markers and award-winning teachers at the annual HSC Study Day on Thursday June 6.

Around 700 students and their teachers, representing more than 50 high schools from as far away as Coffs Harbour, Tweed and Glen Innes, will be travelling to the Lismore campus to get the inside edge on their Higher School Certificate study preparations ahead of the start of the written examinations in October.

“The HSC markers have made it a priority to assist students maximise their HSC results,” said Dr Marilyn Chaseling, deputy head of the School of Education.

“They’ll show the students how to be smarter at answering questions and will cut through some of the myths about the HSC exam papers.”

The HSC Study Day is a joint initiative of the University's School of Education, the NSW Department of Education and the Catholic Education Office in Lismore. It was established in 2000.

Northern Rivers Science and Engineering Challenge
The Northern Rivers Science and Engineering Challenge, on Wednesday June 5 and Thursday June 6, is designed to inspire Australia’s next generation of professionals in science, technology and engineering.

The Challenge is a practical day of fun, teamwork and discovery. Year 9 and 10 students get to participate in a range of hands-on activities that are designed to demonstrate the varied and practical elements of science, technology and engineering. Each completed activity earns points for the school’s team.

Students from Mullumbimby High (2012 Day 2 winner) and Trinity Catholic College Lismore (2012 Day 1 winner) will be out to retain their trophies. This year around 450 students from 16 high schools are taking part, from the Tweed to Coffs Harbour.

Professor Jerry Vanclay, head of the University’s School of Environment, Science and Engineering, said employers were seeking people who were competent and independent problem-solvers.

“Challenge activities like Stringways, Helter Skelter Shelter and Eco-Habitech give students a taste of some of the real-life problems they could face as our future scientists and engineers.

“Many of the world’s challenging problems are only solved through collaboration, as a good communicator and a good team player.”

The Challenge has been hosted by the University and the Rotary Club of Alstonville since 2007.
Photo: Jonathon Windon from Clarence Valley Anglican School Grafton at last year’s HSC Study Day.