The University of Western Australia
Most school trips come with strict rules, organised headcounts, and chaperoning teachers holding a big backpack. Ours came with 4 boarding passes, a group-chat full of “where are you” and total independence and that was all thanks to the support from Hedland SHS and the BHP Pilbara Education Partnership. We were able to attend such an amazing opportunity to fly to Perth and have a first-hand experience at university life at The University of Western Australia (UWA).
The day of our flight was very nerve racking for all of us, especially when you’ve never flown without your parents and already missing them when getting into the plane. We were super excited to become independent in our flights, shared rides, and even checking into our hotel for the very first time. Landing in Perth wasn’t as hectic as we expected; yes, it was raining and yes, it was freezing, but regardless we were able to make the journey safely and efficiently.
The trip was planned around us having a chance to experience the campus and receive ATAR exam preparation and course revision lessons during the school holidays to assist us with the last term of our school year and our final ATAR examinations in Term 4. Since ATAR focuses on the academic achievements of students, we strive for high marks and attending the tutorials was greatly beneficial in extending the depth of our knowledge, which we hope will further prepare us in gaining a better mark in our most important round of exams.
We loved our tutorials and our teachers, but the unexpected highlight was making so many new friends throughout our week and connecting with others of different background and schools. Meeting other ATAR students was very mind opening to how different schools functioned and how their content was taught to them. They helped us by providing extra tips on how to study effectively and solving common problems. Since our school has relatively small numbers of ATAR students; being able to gain the chance to work with other students in Perth allowed us to see other perspectives of learning.
Without the help of the BHP Pilbara Education Partnership, pursuing ATAR in the region can feel like playing catch-up against the metro schools with endless access to tutors and lessons. Having flights, accommodation, revision courses, and all required textbooks fully supported removes the stress of distance. It sends a clear message that regional students get the same opportunities to hit their target ATAR and go to university.
Some advice we would give to students potentially thinking of pursuing ATAR is:
Dedicate yourself entirely to the process and push beyond the minimum required ATAR; aim for the absolute pinnacle, regardless of your target career. Achieving excellence in the ATAR pathway demands self-discipline, unwavering commitment, and a willingness to go beyond standard coursework over the two years of senior school. Do not settle for less than your true potential. Hold yourself to the highest standards, and put in the work for your own future, education, and long-term success.
Jenifer, Lindsay, Arianna and Sheridan – Year 12 ATAR students