Interview with Year 12 HSC student T.W.

Mr T.W. is a student who transferred (with all his siblings in high school) from a regional school in the southern highlands to a prestigious private school just outside of Sydney city.

What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed between your old regional school and your new private school in the city?

"Biggest difference would definitely be the size of the school and the community- going from a small school with a handful of kids to a large private school with upwards of 1500+ students."

Do you feel like you get more opportunities here than you did back home?

"Yes, I was definitely open to more opportunities at my private school in the city - more people to meet, better learning environments"

How did the internet and technology you had back home compare to what you have now?

"In my private school, I was allowed to own my laptop on which I could do all my work on, instead of pen and paper"

Were there subjects or activities in the city that weren’t available in your regional school?

"Definitely, my private school offered a large range of different subjects to choose from, and more sports to play"

How did living and studying in a regional area affect your mental health compared to now?

"Living in a regional area was peaceful and quiet most of the time. However, studying, particularly in Y11 and 12, became quite difficult, and I felt I needed to be closer to the city with better communication."

Do you miss the sense of community from your old school, or do you feel more supported here?

"Whilst the community at my old school was very close, my new school has more people to connect with, where I felt more supported"

Do you think moving gave you better chances for uni or jobs?

"Yes, definitely, my new school in the city has better educational facilities and close relationships with unis"

What advice would you give other regional students thinking about moving for school?

"My advice to give would be to take every opportunity given to you"