SCHOOL is out but exams are in across Victoria.
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Victorian Certificate of Education students at Beechworth Secondary College began their examinations in earnest on Wednesday.
VCE co-ordinator Michael Barnard said he enjoyed staying with the outgoing group throughout their six years of secondary school study.
“They started at our school the same year I did so it’s been very rewarding,” he said.
Mr Barnard said his decision to become a staff member was influenced by creating strong student relationships.
“It’s fantastic to know the kids and the parents and developing strong communication,” he said.
“It really helps you understand where they’re at and help them when you need too.”
Mr Barnard said the time commitment he undertook this year was returned by students.
“It is a busy role but it is very rewarding,” he said.
“You get the reward back from the time you put into the kids.”
Siobhan Wilson, 18, and Nicole Clark and Riannon Garvey, both 17, are part of the class completing studies this year.
Siobhan said she was ecstatic to get her English exam out of the way.
“When I started writing I realised it was the last time I ever had to do English,” she said.
“It’s a pretty good feeling.”
Riannon said she organised her subjects depending on the exam date.
“I tend to prioritise them,” she said.
“I have an Indonesian exam in three weeks so I haven’t looked at those books yet, but I’ve studied fairly hard for psychology this week.”
Rhiannon said her prioritisation benefited the way she tackled her topics.
“I’m already in the mindset, I only studied English on Tuesday so I wouldn’t be confused with anything else,” she said.
Riannon said teachers were an important resource to alleviate exam stress.
“Some of us went to school the week before exams and asked them any last minute questions,” she said.
Nicole said science was her strength and much of her time had also been dedicated to English.
“I’m more of a science person so English hasn’t been my strong suit,” she said.
VCE exams will finish on November 18, while NSW exams finish on November 6.
