There's a long running joke in my family that if you want to know how to do something search WikiHow. So when faced with guiding students into good subject choices, I thought "why not?"

Lo and behold, there IS actually a page dedicated to choosing your subjects in senior schooling and the advice it gives is logical, helpful and aligned with what I know to be true, both from theory and experience. You can read the full WikiHow article, but here's a quick summary.

1. Set your goals. Know where you want to be going after school, and use the subjects as pathways to accomplish that goal.

2. Goldilocks rules. Subject too hard? You will give up. Subject too easy? You will be bored. Find that subject that is a stretch, but in your grasp.

3. Do what you like. No literally. Do the subjects you enjoy. You will find your motivation and outcomes higher.

4. Meet the requirements. TCE? ATAR? Numeracy, Literacy and ICT ticks? University prerequisites? Make sure you do the subjects that are essential for gaining different qualifications.

5. Do your research. How many assignments? How much work? Is there an exam? What's the course about? Find out what you are signing up to so there are no nasty surprises.

6. Talk it over. Choosing subjects can be overwhelming and daunting. Chat to someone you trust. And of course, come chat to me. I'd love to help you through this process.

Remember at the end of the day, God has a plan for you. If the path takes a little longer, or it's a bit bumpy, that's another chance to learn and grow. Enjoy this chance to explore your pathway. Destination - tomorrow!

Carly Brouwer — Pathways Coordinator