Year 11 students worried about their final year

Some 74 per cent of the current Year 11s are more nervous about Year 12 and 76 per cent are very worried about the threat of more lockdowns, potentially resulting in school closures during their final year. 

When asked how Covid-19 has affected their schooling, exams and/or confidence, the feedback was mixed but concerning.

One Year 11 student surveyed said: “It's been quite a roller coaster and I'm incredibly nervous for the future. Covid has definitely changed the way we learn and has impacted our mental state greatly. Many of us Year 11s are afraid of having to enter our HSC year online.”

Another student stated: “I feel like Covid-19 has set me back in my learning so much, and as a current Year 11 student I am feeling so underprepared for Year 12. It is so difficult to be productive with online learning, and I am incredibly worried that the setbacks from this year are going to negatively impact my HSC year.”

A whopping 86 per cent of Year 11 students think they were more disadvantaged than Year 11s from previous years; 70 per cent of Year 11 students feel that Covid-19 has negatively impacted their learning progress.

However, not all students seem to be suffering under an online model: “Online learning has actually benefited me, there's no distractions from other students and I have all the time in the world to work on homework and assignments. If anything I'm getting them done quicker,” said one.

Dr Selina Samuels, Chief Learning Officer at Cluey Learning, who conducted the survey says, “I am not surprised that our Year 11 students are anxious and stressed as they progress into their final year. With school closures, it is difficult for them to get the practice and feedback that establish strong foundations for their final year.”

Engagement and a sense of normalcy have also taken a beating from Covid-19. As another Year 11 student put it: “Honestly, Covid-19 has been quite beneficial as it has increased my productivity. However, the disadvantages remain greater than the benefits you receive, to me at least. No socialising, no immediate help from teachers, very bored at home.”

Image by Lachlan Ross from Pexels