On Thursday 13 October, the HSC written exams begin. Within days of each exam finishing, BOSTES starts marking. With more than 77,000 students sitting for around 350,000 exams in 118 subjects, marked by more than 5000 markers, delivering the exams is a huge logistical exercise and one we take very seriously.

All marking needs to be swiftly completed so that results can be sent to students on Thursday 15 December.

While some students will feature on our merit lists and have their projects and performances selected for the HSC showcases, all students should be proud of their achievements.

Students who will complete their HSC this year will receive a highly regarded international credential that has prepared them well for whatever path they choose when they leave school.

I wish you all the best.

I also wish to acknowledge the teachers who have worked so hard during each student’s 13-year school journey, developing thinking, creative and knowledgeable young adults.

Term 4 is the busiest time of year for schools. It is a period of change and transition – Year 11 students begin their Year 12 HSC studies; Year 6 students start orientation for Year 7; preschool students start wearing their school uniforms in their excitement to begin school.

In addition to planning for 2017, teachers will be busy writing their end of year reports, as well as coordinating and attending the music, drama and dance performances, and speech days and award ceremonies that mark the end of the school year.

I wish all of you a happy and busy end to the school year.