Matilda Cole and Darrell Connellan, who believe a continuous, school-based assessment could be a better alternative to the HSC. Photo: Erin Hee.
Darrell Connellan has just sat through her first HSC exam – English 1.
Even though she has been continuously told the ATAR and HSC doesn’t define her, and there are other pathways to success, she believes the current system puts too much pressure on students.
She thinks the ACT’s system, where results over a period of two years (Years 11 and 12) are calculated through continuous, school-based assessments and count towards the ATAR, may be better.
“Especially given the high chances that you would underperform under such a stressful situation, like you underperform in one exam and it would ruin everything,” she said.
She’s come a long way since Year 7, when she failed a couple of classes while trying to adjust to attending school during COVID lockdowns.
Having taken arts throughout high school, she’s hoping to pursue a career in arts and cultural management, perhaps working in a museum or other cultural centre and is sitting exams for advanced English, standard mathematics, biology, chemistry and visual arts.
After wrapping up her HSC, she plans on taking a gap year and to continue working at the Civic Theatre.
Region caught up with her for our ongoing series profiling Year 12 students to discuss everything arts, role models and Ariana Grande.
Name: Darrell Connellan.
Age: 18.
School: Wagga Wagga High School.
Best memories of school life: The last few weeks of Year 12 were really good. All of our friends and year group came together and worked really hard to make sure we were prepared.
Naughtiest thing you ever did at school: In Year 7, I didn’t do my assignments and failed a couple of classes. But I worked hard after that, I promise! I was very slack at the start of high school, and very scared because it was during COVID so it was very different.
Teachers that inspired you: All of my art teachers. I’ve done art since Year 7 through Year 12 and they’ve really enriched my knowledge on art … why it should be more appreciated. They inspired me to take a career in art.
One thing you’d change about the education system:
We’ve been told for a couple of years now ATAR doesn’t define you; the HSC is not the end of the world.
We were told that by professionals all around, but it is still a lot of pressure and stress, and it takes a toll on us regardless.
Darrell thinks the three-hour exams could be shortened and believes students are made to feel as if the ATAR and HSC will dictate what they are allowed to pursue in the future, despite adults’ best intentions.
Role model: Tracee Ellis Ross. I guess you could call her a nepo baby because she’s Diana Ross’s daughter, but she’s very outspoken about not depending on anyone. She’s not married, doesn’t have kids and she focuses on herself.
I think it’s really important for people to understand that you need to take care of and prioritise yourself sometimes.
Famous person you most admire and why: Ariana Grande. Very similar thing – she’s very self-sustained, hardworking and has really strong beliefs in herself.
Plans for next year: I’m planning to take time off before I go to university and focus on my work at the Civic Theatre.
Best advice you ever got from your parents: Don’t let other people limit your perceptions for yourself. I know myself, I understand myself, and I know what I want and what I can do.
Dream career: Something in arts and cultural management. I want to work in museums and cultural centres.
