Numerous philosopher and leader has emphasised the need for education in shaping the course of future generations. And selective high schools are one component of the modern education system that aims to further this motive. Getting into a Selective School is a dream that some high achieving student harbours because it provides the academic knowledge and learning environment.
Here we answer a question that is often asked by students: whether or not they can make it to a selective school of their choice.
In the discussion that follows, we will highlight the fundamental elements that may contribute to successful admission in a selective high school and the things that parents and students may consider in this regard.
The process of getting selected
Selective high schools have a process foradmitting students, including a placement test. This test is part of thecriteria used to assess a student’s suitability for the programs offered by theschool they wish to attend. It is noted that a significant number of studentsparticipate in the NSW Selective High School Placement Test each year, and aportion of those are offered a place in the program
It indicates the level of competitiveness required to ace the test and getting into a school of your choice. Leading educationists and teachers empathise that in most cases parents are unaware of the fact that their children need to apply two years before starting Year 7 for placement.
Choosing the school
While the tests are incredibly competitive, this is not something that has to be taken as a negative or allowed to become a de-motivating factor. Every student aspiring to get into a selective high school has to submit three choices for their preferred schools. These should be well thought and listed in priority because you will be offered the placement based on these choices.
New South Wales currently has the highest number of selective schools in Australia. There are 17 fully selective, 4 agricultural high schools and 25 partially selective schools that students can opt for, each with their respective core competencies.
Something to consider when selecting a school
Parents decision to send their child to these school may have a significant impact on their future. As a result, parents should pay extensive attention to the entire process.
Given the competitiveness of the selection process, the first two choices can be the top tier, and the third choice in the form should be a less prestigious school. It is in case a student doesn’t qualify for the higher ranked schools, so they still get into a Selective institute.
Getting into a selective school Â
Making it to the merit list of receiving a placement letter from a Selective School requires considerable effort on the student’s, parents’ and mentors’ part alike. Many elements have to be considered, but most importantly the enrollment effort has to begin quite early in life.
These high schools calculate performance through a combination of the placement test results and may consider the past academic record of the student which means that having good grades may benefit the outcome enormously. Here are a few things that can be influential in helping you get into the school of your choice:
Brushing up on your knowledge
Besides the academic curriculum that you have to go through, reading other books and resources will help you a lot. Going through magazines and newspapers may help you considerably in increasing your reading, writing and comprehension skills for placement into selective high schools. Some teachers believe that these skills are vital when pursuing the objective of making it into these prestigious schools. Some successful candidates also emphasise that reading was indeed beneficial for them to get a placement that they wanted.
Not only does it help you with your writing and understanding of passages but reading newspapers is especially influential in increasing your knowledge of current affairs and what is new in the world.
Tuition and practice tests
While the effectiveness of coaching for students aiming to do well in their placement tests is a topic of discussion, it's suggested that these classes may offer certain tools and techniques that could be beneficial. Some of these classes are conducted by educators with a background in navigating challenging academic exams. Their experience isaimed at supporting students in their preparation, although individual results may vary.
Alongside tuitions, you might find practicing with sample tests available on the internet may be beneficial. Engaging with these resources may provide an opportunity for additional practice and review, which some individuals find helpful for familiarisation with the types of questions that may appear on thet est.
More important than practice
It is something that mentor can help you achieve. We’re talking about not just practising and repeatedly solving large amounts of the question, but more importantly, understanding how you’re arriving at the correct solution. It is the fundamental aspect of getting things right because problems can always be modified slightly, but the underlying concept remains the same. If you haven’t understood how to derive the solution, you might get hung up on a tricky question and end up jeopardising your chances of getting into the school of your dreams.
Clearing selective tests can be quite a challenge, but the rewards are substantial enough to motivate you to work hard. Rest assured that once you’ve checked all the appropriate boxes, success is more than possible.
Disclaimer:
The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice, endorsement, or guarantee of successful admission into selective high schools. The process of admission and individual success may vary widely. NotesEdu is not responsible for any inaccuracies, effectiveness of the strategies mentioned, or any consequences resulting from the use of this information. Your reliance on the information and the results obtained are solely at your own risk.
