Supporting a young person during the HSC: A guide for parents and carers

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is a significant milestone in a young person’s education, and it can be a stressful time for both students and parents.

While your child is focused on studying and exams, you might be wondering how you can support them without adding any extra pressure.

There are some simple ways you can help them stay organised, manage their stress, and stay healthy during this critical time. Here are a few tips to guide you through it.

1. Help Them Develop a Study Routine

A structured study plan is vital for HSC preparation. Sit down with your child and help them create a realistic study schedule, dividing their time among various subjects. Whether it’s an app or an old-school calendar on the fridge, a young person will benefit from creating a daily schedule and sticking to it.

Encourage regular breaks every hour to avoid burnout and remind them to balance study time with relaxation. This means making time for study, family and work commitments, exercise, friends and some fun too!

Help them set small, achievable goals for each study session, which can make the process feel more manageable. Track key dates, such as exam timetables and support them in staying organised.

2. Create a Positive Environment

The home environment plays a significant role in a young person's ability to focus and perform during the HSC. Making sure your child has a quiet, organised space to study, free from distractions, will assist them in concentrating. This doesn’t need to be an elaborate setup – just a clean, comfortable space with all the necessary materials they will need for the day.

Be mindful of the emotional atmosphere in your home as well. Stress can be contagious, so try to maintain a calm and positive attitude when you can. Encourage other family members to be considerate of study time too.

3. Be a Source of Emotional Support

The HSC can be emotionally challenging for students. Be available to listen when they need to vent or share their concerns. Try to keep a level head when they are frustrated and may take this out on you. Acknowledge their feelings without judgment. Let them know it’s okay to feel anxious and that you’re there to support them, no matter the outcome.

4. Know When to Step Back

While it’s essential to be supportive and involved in the process, allowing a young person some independence is equally important. Over-involvement can lead to increased anxiety or a sense that they need to live up to unrealistic expectations. Trust your child to manage their routine and workload and offer guidance only when they ask.

If you encourage them to develop problem-solving skills and self-discipline now, this will serve them well not only during the HSC but also in future challenges.

5. Encourage Healthy Habits

Good physical and mental health is essential to support your child’s memory and performance. Encourage them to get enough sleep daily, eat a healthy, balanced diet and engage in physical activity.

Exercise is a proven stress reliever and helps improve concentration and mood. Also, monitor their screen time during breaks. While some downtime is essential, long hours of mindless scrolling can increase anxiety and negatively impact sleep.

Short walks, stretching, or even just a change of scenery for ten minutes can help reset focus and reduce stress.

6. Reach Out for Extra Help When Needed

If you notice that your child is struggling with what may be over and above everyday HSC stress, such as showing signs of anxiety, depression, or burnout, reach out to support services for professional support and advice. Schools often provide access to counsellors or mental health services, and external resources are also available (see the table below).

7. Remind Them - They are Not Their HSC

Talk with them about how they are feeling about their study and offer reassurance. Avoid adding to their stress by focusing too much on results. Instead, reinforce that effort and persistence are what truly matter. Praise their hard work and remind them that the HSC is just one step in a long journey. Your unconditional support can help alleviate pressure.

Supporting a young person through the HSC requires patience, empathy, and balance. Providing a positive environment, encouraging healthy habits, and being emotionally present can help ease the burden and ensure your child feels supported during this crucial time. Remember, your role is not just about guiding them to academic success but also about helping them feel supported, build resilience, and look after their mental health for the future.