term 2 week 4 SOUTH SYDNEY HIGH SCHOOL

New to the Collection Highlights

Blood Moon Bride by Demet Divaroren

This is a terrific fantasy novel with strong female characters who are prepared to forsake everything for the hope of peace and happiness. With themes of treachery, forced marriage, family ties and magical ability, it will best suit readers in the middle secondary years.

Dating and Dragons by Kristy Boyce

Set in the world of online gaming, this is a wonderful teenage romance novel. From the same author as Dungeons and Drama, this is another gaming romance, albeit with a totally different story and characters to her previous book.

Let the Light In by Jenny Downham & Louis Hill

An extraordinary novel by mother and son authors, jenny Downham and Louis Hall. This is a searing, powerful and ultimately uplifting exploration of journeying through grief. The novel explores forbidden love, the control and power of bullies through the loan sharks, as well as family love, grief, sadness and, in the end, hope and support.

The Skin I’m In by Steph Tisdell

Layla is in her final year of school. It's the last year to make sure that the next major phase of her life begins correctly because she's got big plans. She just wants to be a normal teenager and to fit in but when her troubled cousin Marley comes to stay, he challenges everything she thought she was. This coming of age novel has been shortlisted for CBCA Book of the Year for Older Readers.

May the Best Player Win by Kyla Zhao

This book explores the anxiety that many young people, even who might seem to have everything going for them, can suffer from. It has terrific characters and shows the benefit of having people who are looking out for you, whether that is your parents, teachers or friends. While chess is the game explored in this book, it is equally applicable to any competitive setting. It also explores how sexism permeates our society, both subtly and overtly, and why comments like “you play like a girl” should never be tolerated.

Black Dogs: Stories of love and friendship; photography by Fred Levy

Over 50 stunning portraits of photographer Fred Levy's Canine Noir series alongside heartwarming profiles about each dog and their loving companionship.

Ms Maddocks, Teacher Librarian

Big Picture News

This term in Big Picture one of our students Bianca in Year 9 has made an achievement of securing her first LTI (Learning Through Internship) at Channel 10. She received a tour around the studio, including a demonstration of how to use different rendering sites. She was invited to attend several meetings and help critique the work. Getting this opportunity was a massive step in her passion project; and we can’t wait to see what she does next!

Sport News

Impressive Showing from the Year 7 Rugby League Team at South Sydney Zone Gala Day

Our Year 7 Rugby League boys delivered a strong performance at the recent South Sydney Zone Gala Day competition, winning 3 out of 4 games in a display that highlighted their talent, teamwork, and tenacity.

A standout moment of the day came with a convincing victory over cross-town rivals Randwick, despite their opponents fielding several representative-level players. The boys showed great determination and composure, dominating key moments of the match.

Their only loss came in a tightly contested clash against Engadine, going down narrowly 8–4 in a game that could have gone either way. Despite the loss, the team showed resilience and fought hard until the final whistle.

Coach Mr Lennox expressed how proud he was of the boys, saying, “They played with real heart and skill. It’s an exciting group that shows great promise for the future – definitely some future league stars in the making.”

Best and Fairest Points for the Day:

• 1 Point – Archie (Year 7): For leading the team with excellent playmaking and a sharp kicking game.
• 2 Points – Zachery (Year 7): For outstanding leadership both on and off the field.
• 3 Points – Kai (Year 8): For his powerful, hard-running game that consistently broke the defensive line and took the tough carries in pivotal moments.

Well done to all the boys on a great day of footy! The school is proud of your efforts!

Careers Hub

Picnic Bench Incursion

On Tuesday 13 May, 14 students participated in a Picnic Bench Incursion. They worked hard all day and Joey the instructor said of the over 60 schools that he has done this activity with, South Sydney HS is one of the best. Congratulations, great job!

University Applications/Early Entry and Post School Information

On Friday 16 May at lunch in staff common room, I ran the second Year 12 workshop to help with University Applications/Early Entry.

We explored the UAC portal and how to get it up and what to do for SRS, and EAS.

It is important that Yr 12 students keep connected to Careers Google Classroom, emails and Sentral notifications stay up to date.

UAC at the HSC and Careers Expos

• 29-31 May - HSC and Careers Expo
• 26-28 June - Western Sydney Careers Expo

Expo season is here! Our Community Engagement team has been enjoying meeting high school students across the state and we're looking forward to talking to more of you at the HSC and careers expos at Randwick and Sydney Olympic Park.

Alongside UAC, a huge range of exhibitors will be ready to share their expert advice. You’ll get direct access to information on the HSC, university, TAFE and training courses; career, study and employment advice; help for future apprentices and trainees; and guidance if you’re planning an international exchange or gap year

Come and meet the UAC team and don’t miss UAC’s daily seminars:

• The ATAR and applying through UAC: information for students in Years 11 and 12
• The ATAR and subject selection: advice for Year 10 students
• So you want to be a doctor? Q&A on medicine entry (Saturdays only).

Entry to each expo is $15 ($35 for families, children under 14 free): online pre-purchase only. Click the link for more information: https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/hsc-and-careers-expos

Early Entry Guide – Study Work Grow

Click HERE to access the early entry guide.

Universities Open Days Guide – Study work grow

Click HERE to access the open days guide.

University of Sydney - Sydney College of the Arts Portfolio Evening (Online) - 3 June

Your portfolio is a key part of your application to study a Bachelor of Visual Arts or Bachelor of Visual Arts and Bachelor of Advanced Studies at the University of Sydney.

As part of the Portfolio Evening, you’ll be able to speak with our experienced staff to:

• gain personalised, one-on-one feedback and advice on your current portfolio and how to enhance your submission from our academic staff
• receive information about our degrees, specialised facilities, and student opportunities inside and outside the classroom.

Click the link to get your tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/sca-portfolio-evening-online

University of Sydney - Architecture & Design at Sydney: Build Your Portfolio Webinar - 28 May

A great portfolio could help you gain entry into your dream course. Hear from our Architecture and Design staff about our Portfolio Admission Pathway, including tips on how to build a creative portfolio that showcases your passion and potential. Click HERE to register!

University of Sydney - Music Audition Information Session - 10 June

Join us at our Music Audition Information Session on 10 June. We encourage you to take this opportunity to receive tailored advice from our academic staff and gain valuable insights about your audition, which is a crucial element to your application to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

At this online event, you’ll hear from Professor Matthew Hindson, Deputy Head of School, Deputy Dean, Associate Dean (Education). Click HERE for more information.

UNSW Co-Op Scholarship - Application Closes 30 September

A Co-op Program scholarship provides industry training, professional development, networking and financial support for selected undergraduate students in the disciplines of Business, Engineering, and Science.

Today, it is the largest and most prestigious scholarship program of its type in Australia and a leader in career development learning. There are over 300 current Co-op scholars who join more than 3,500 UNSW Co-op Alumni. The experience and networks our scholars develop enrich their time at university and give them an invaluable head start upon entering the work force. Click HERE to apply!

UNSW Portfolio Entry Information Evening - 16 July

UNSW, we know your creativity, individuality, and drive can't be captured by an ATAR alone. That's why we offer the UNSW Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme—a personalised pathway to university that truly reflects who you are.

Join our Information Session! Hear directly from UNSW academics and students about crafting a compelling portfolio for undergraduate degrees within the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture and the Faculty of Engineering in 2026. We'll guide you through what to include, how to apply, and tips to help you succeed. Plus, you'll have the chance to ask questions and get clarity on anything you're unsure about. Click HERE to register!

UNSW Business School Information Evening - 28 May

Join us online to hear from our expert panel of academic staff and advisers. You'll gain insights about our range of programs designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today's competitive business landscape.

You will also hear from our current student and alumni about their student experiences and about the importance of the industry landscape now in Business.

Additionally, find out detailed information on the application and admissions process for 2026 entry including various pathways. Click HERE to get your tickets.

UCAT Practice Tests and Question Banks

These example questions and practice tests are produced by the UCAT Consortium and are representative of the live test. We recommend you use these official materials to prepare for your test. Don't forget to read the information about the Test Tools before you start, as it explains how to use the on-screen calculator and keyboard shortcuts.

Although introduced to Australia and New Zealand in 2019, the UCAT has been used for over 12 years in the UK under the historic test name UKCAT. These UCAT preparation materials represent the content of the UCAT ANZ test and should be used to familiarise yourself with the test format and to prepare for the test. As practice materials are compiled from previous test questions, there may be a higher proportion of questions with a UK context than you will see in the UCAT ANZ. Click to link for the website.

https://www.ucat.edu.au/prepare/practice-tests/

UCAT Preparation Advice and Resources

We advise you to prepare for the UCAT using the free official practice materials which have been developed by the UCAT Consortium. We believe that all everyone should have access to free preparation materials to support their test preparation. The resources and advice below have been produced by ourselves using feedback from previous high-scoring candidates. Click HERE to view the resources.

UCAT Test Day

It is important to read this information to ensure your test day runs smoothly. The information below outlines the test centre experience. You should familiarise yourself with the UCAT ANZ Examination Rules before your appointment. These explain what you must do if you have any issues during testing. Please also refer to the Test Day Problems section: https://www.ucat.edu.au/sit/test-day/

UCAT ANZ Test Format

The UCAT is a two-hour computer-based test which assesses a range of abilities identified by universities as important to practicing in the fields of medicine / dentistry / clinical sciences. The test consists of five separately timed subtests which each contain a number of questions in a multiple-choice format.

Once the test has started it cannot be paused but each subtest is preceded by a 1 minute instruction section.

Candidates can apply for Access Arrangements to sit an extended version of the test if they have a documented medical condition or disability. Click HERE for more information.

Year 10 High School Subject Selection Guide – from StudyWorkGrow

Click the link for more information: https://studyworkgrow.com/high-school-subject-selection-a-guide-for-parents/

University of Newcastle - Year 10 Subject Selection Webinar - 28 May

Our student ambassadors will share key Year 10 Subject Selection information and share their stories and experiences with subject selection and transition to University studies.

Presentation topics:

• Subject selection process (our 3 simple steps on how to select your subjects)
• Subject selection resources, case studies and examples
• What if I don't know what I want to do or change my mind?
• What can you study at the University of Newcastle
• Differences between school life and university life
• Pathways to University
• Ask a Student platform

Click HERE for more information!

University of Wollongong - Year 10 Subject Selection Information Webinar - 16 June

Choosing the right subjects in Year 10 is an important step towards achieving your future study and career goals.

Join the University of Wollongong (UOW) for a free online event designed to help Year 10 students and their parents make informed subject choices for senior years.

In this session, our experts will cover:

• How subject choices can influence university entry and career pathways
• The importance of prerequisite subjects and assumed knowledge
• Understanding the ATAR and the role of Year 11 results
• Tips for keeping your options open

You'll also have the chance to ask questions during a live Q&A and chat with our team. Click HERE to register!

HIA Building Apprenticeships

Our apprentice program guarantees that you will learn every facet of the industry that you need to know from the most experienced and skilled HIA members. You will learn on the job training and mentoring with a mix of training courses to make sure you become a fully qualified tradesperson. You can then decide if you want to continue working for someone else or whether you want to become your own boss. Click HERE for more information.

Australian Cabinet & Furniture Association Apprenticeships

Flexibility and Personalised Apprenticeships ACFA is a registered training organisation that brings a unique experience to how young people are trained in an existing industry. The workplace-based training model brings flexibility and a personalised touch with a dedicated trainer. Click HERE for more information!

All about the Australian Defence Force Academy

Forged from a unique partnership between the ADF and the University of New South Wales, ADFA in Canberra offers world-class education plus cutting-edge military and leadership training. It’s where you can undertake military training while being paid to study for a world-class undergraduate degree.

As an ADFA student, you’ll receive a great salary plus full medical and dental cover and have all your tuition fees and student expenses covered by the ADF. You’ll graduate Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)-debt free and walk straight into a rewarding career in the Navy, Army or Air Force. Click HERE for more information.

ADFA Virtual Tour

Want to learn more about the Australian Defence Force Academy? Click HERE for the ADFA virtual tour.

AMPA Experience Day - Classical Performance & Composition - 14 July

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring Classical musicians and Composers aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music!

Attendees will have the chance to sit in on a performance class, participate in workshops/Q&As facilitated by AMPA’s music faculty and experience what studying music is like at AMPA. Experience a day in the life of an AMPA music student to gain further insight into tertiary education and how it can benefit your future. Click HERE for tickets!

AMPA Experience Day - Contemporary Music Performance & Music Production - 17 July

Academy of Music and Performing Arts (AMPA) invites aspiring contemporary musicians and music creators aged 16 and over to join us on campus for a day of music!

Attendees will have the chance to sit in on a performance class, participate in workshops/Q&As facilitated by AMPA’s music faculty and experience what studying music is like at AMPA. Experience a day in the life of an AMPA music student to gain further insight into tertiary education and how it can benefit your future. Click HERE for tickets.

Australian Institute of Music HSC Masterclass - 11 July

AIM’s HSC Performance Workshop is designed exclusively for Year 12 Music 1 and 2 students who are interested in improving and polishing their performance works for their assessments, trial performances and HSC.

During this workshop, you will be broken up into specialised Masterclasses to workshop your HSC performance material with an expert instrumentalist in your chosen style. Together you will focus on important musical parameters based on performance characteristics and the concepts of music.

You will perform the material studied in your Masterclass and receive feedback from experienced HSC teachers and music experts. This session also covers issues such as performance anxiety and developing focus under stress, delivered by AIM’s experienced lecturers.

In addition, AIM staff will provide advice on examination ensembles, performance material, scores, and parts, and provide advice on booking accompanying musicians for performance examinations. Click HERE for tickets to the workshop.

ICMS Early Entry Now Open

Early Entry is an alternate entry pathway designed for high-achieving HSC students who want to secure a place at ICMS before sitting their final exams.

To apply for Early Entry, you must meet the following criteria:

• intend to start your studies in February 2026
• are seeking an early offer (prior to your Year 12 final exams)
• are currently in your final year of high school
• are an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.

Click the link for more details: https://www.icms.edu.au/future-students/entry-pathways/early-entry/

AIQS Donald Napier Scholarship - Apply Now - Applications Now Open, closes 1 October

AIQS offers a number of scholarships each year for Year 12 students who qualify for entry into a Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Construction Management (Economics) or other appropriate course at an AIQS accredited program in Australia.

There are four scholarships offered each year

• General (open to all people)
• First Nations people (Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander)
• Disadvantaged (financial, carer, medical condition or disability, regional or remote
• Diversity (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, age, religion, marital status, language)

The value of the scholarship is AU$5,000. Click HERE for more details.

Return and Earn

Keep the return and earn coming in! If you have any cans, bottles and/or 10c items, please bring to school to Ms Mattock’s office.

Meredith Mattock, Careers Adviser

Community news & events

We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Bidjigal people, the traditional owners and custodians of the land we work on. We also pay respect to Aboriginal elders past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal people.

Contact us:

Telephone | 9349 3868

Email | sthsydney-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

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