Student wellbeing coordinator at Bendigo Senior Secondary College Jess Neale sees students whose sense of self suffers a blow when they don’t get the results they hoped for.

Her advice? Stay focused on the future.

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“Sometimes we can definite our sense of identity on the basis of what we hope to do in terms of our job, our career and our skills, and our identity is so much more than just our ATAR score,” Ms Neale said.

“It’s much better to stay focused on the fact that they’ve done as well as they could, and put their energy into looking forward.”

Careers and pathways advisor at BSSC Naomi Flint sees both students who haven’t got the results they hoped for, and those that have exceeded their expectations.

Her advice was the same for both: be proactive, and put yourself in the driver’s seat.

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While it could be a difficult time students should seek advice immediately because the time for changing preferences is short, Ms Flint said.

She reminded students that there were often multiple pathways into the course they want.

“Don’t hide away and not do anything, be proactive and seek help,” Mrs Flint said.

“The most satisfying part with us is a student will come into us being very upset, and by the end of our conversation they’ll walk out being really happy because they’ve got so many options.”

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Ms Neale reminded students to stay focused on the core things that keep them healthy, like exercise and sleep.

Those students who are feeling disappointed she advised to seek the support of adults they trust, spend time with friends who are positive, reach out for help at their school, and not to get bogged down in comparison.

Most of all Ms Neale advised students to focus on what they have achieved.

“It’s also important for them to celebrate the fact that they’ve gotten through year 12,” Ms Neale said.

“Achieving year 12 is a really important milestone and should be celebrated regardless of what their ATAR is.”

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