NSW Vice-Chancellors welcome HSC exams decision

25 April 2020

New South Wales universities have today welcomed the announcement the decision to proceed with 2020 HSC examinations despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The New South Wales Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (NSWVCC), which represents all NSW-based universities, acknowledged that students’ focus is being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but supported moves to maintain the annual exams schedule.

NSWVCC Convener, UOW Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wellings, CBE, backed the decision taken by the NSW Education Standards Agency (NESA) to proceed with HSC examinations.
“NSW universities welcome NESA’s decision to run year 12 examinations on the normal timetable because it will give students certainty and a clear pathway to university entry.
“We appreciate that the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 have impacted on students’ focus, but the need for certainty is paramount.
“Proceeding with the HSC examinations provides certainty to students, parents and teachers as well as universities.
“Year 12 students and others aspiring to further study in 2021 are strongly encouraged to remain committed to completing the HSC in 2020,” Professor Wellings said.

The Committee assured all students, teachers and parents that universities would assist as much as possible via admission processes.
“As in all previous years, NSW universities work closely with the NSW Education Standards Authority and the Universities Admissions Centre to ensure that university admission processes are as equitable and transparent as possible.
“This will continue for 2021 admissions, with universities taking the impact of these disruptions into account in assessing applications for admission.
“2020 is proving to be a disruptive year for the higher education sector, but we urge all students to remain focused on achieving their best possible results under the circumstances.
“Students should feel reassured that all universities are looking forward to welcoming this year’s graduating secondary students into courses commencing in 2021,” Professor Wellings said.