While the HSC is one indicator of academic achievement, it must be recognised that the results are not a complete measure of a person’s overall ability or intellectual capacity and, while a good HSC result may allow a student expeditious entry to university, a poor result won’t immediately exclude anyone either.

For those HSC students who do decide to pursue a university degree, I wish you every success with your studies and hope you are accepted into the course of your choice.

READ MORE: HSC students raise funds for local charities

For those who choose employment or further training at TAFE, I hope that you are able to find what your need here in the Northern Tablelands so that your community can benefit from your commitment and ability.

There is now a much brighter future for young people in this region and we have a growing capacity to educate, train, employ and retain young people here at home.

Once again, to all HSC students, best of luck in your exams and may you find reward in the choices you make for your futures.