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Thousands of year 12 students have now received their West Australian Certificate of Education, marking the official end of 13 years at school.
The Tertiary Institutions Service Centre has revealed 10,265 of those students achieved an ATAR, slightly more than in 2024.
Students from Penrhos College celebrate the end of their schooling journey.
For 18 students, their results contained an additional surprise – the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.
Of school leavers in large-enrolment courses, the highest median ATARs were achieved by students completing mathematics specialist (97.00), mathematics methods (92.55), chemistry (90.80), physics (90.60), and literature (88.95).
The results were released to students at 5pm on Friday evening and five minutes later over 250 people had logged on to check their results.
Within 15 minutes that number soared to over 2000.
School leaders across the state have congratulated the graduating class for their hard work and dedication over the year, and wished them the best for their futures.
Methodist Ladies’ College principal Rebecca Clarke said she encouraged graduates to remember “they are far more than a number and that a fulfilling life is one that is lived purposefully and gratefully”.
Penrhos College principal Kalea Haran acknowledged students’ resilience and courage.
“This cohort reflects the very best of our College. They are young women who have approached learning with purpose, care and determination,” she said.
“This year’s outcomes show far more than results. They tell stories of growth, perseverance and aspiration.”
Perth Modern School principal Robyn Verboon said student achievements reflected years of hard work, persistence and curiosity.
“Their success is also a testament to the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, families and friends, who have walked alongside them throughout this journey,” she said.
“As our students move into the next chapter, whether university, training or other pathways, we know they will continue to learn, lead and make a positive impact in a rapidly changing world.”
TISC chief executive Andrew Crevald said studying for an ATAR was widely considered one of the best preparations for thriving at university.
“However, possessing an ATAR is only one of the attributes required to be a successful university student,” he said.
“That’s why additional ways of establishing suitability for university study are often used alongside or sometimes instead of the ATAR.
“These include alternate qualifications, portfolios, auditions, or aptitude tests.”
Edith Cowan University School of Education senior lecturer Dr Sarah Jefferson said while some students might be on a high after opening their ATAR results, others might be feeling deflated.
“It is a time of mixed emotions and opening those results could be a huge disappointment,” she said.
“When you spend years building up to this moment, it can be hard to live up to expectations.”
Jefferson said it was important for students to remember there were “so many different pathways to get where you want to go.”
“It can be hard, particularly when you are getting messages from your friends who are really happy with their results,” she said.
“Equally, you may feel like you have to manage your excitment in the face of a friend who is upset.
“Just listen and respect how others are feeling.”
She also reminded parents to be patient.
“Give your kids the time to be disappointed and then remind them that if their results are lower than what the expected, it is a redirection not a diversion,” she said.
“Try and remain as neutral as possible and let your children decide how they want to feel.
“Like all storms, it will pass.”
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Crevald said students should seek advice if were unsure of what to do next.
“We know some students will be challenged by their results, but there are many pathways to get where you want to go and lots of people available to help you get there,” he said.
“I encourage students to contact their preferred universities directly, or TISC, to explore their options.”
The first major round of university offers will go out on Wednesday.
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