It’s pens up for 67,000 HSC students today with English Paper 1 marking the start of the 2022 HSC written exams.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the Class of 2022 have worked hard to get to this point and should be proud of their accomplishments.

“My message to HSC students is to celebrate all that you have already achieved as you approach the finish line of your schooling,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Too much stress will work against you, so don’t be afraid to reach out if you need support.

“The HSC might mark the end of your school career but it is only the beginning of the rest of your life.”

NSW Education Standards Authority CEO Paul Martin said it was great to see exams going ahead as normal this year, following successful practical, performance and language oral exams.

“The HSC written exams are a mammoth operation that will take place over the next 18 days, with a total of 75,000 students involved in more than 400,000 exam sessions.

“Thank you to all school communities, including NSW principals, teachers and school staff, for supporting our HSC students throughout the year and today as they begin their written exams,” Mr Martin said.

The HSC written exams will end on 4 November 2022, with students set to receive their results and ATARs on 15 December 2022.

For more tips and advice on staying healthy throughout the exam period, visit the Stay Healthy HSC hub https://education.nsw.gov.au/student-wellbeing/stay-healthy-HSC

For HSC facts and figures, view the HSC enrolment snapshot: https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/hsc/about-HSC/HSC-facts-figures

If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please seek help immediately by calling 000 or one of these services:

• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
• NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511