ATAR 2022: Top tips to success from star students of the past

They are our star students who mastered ATAR. Now Queensland’s future leaders share their secrets to success. READ THEIR TIPS

Meet Queensland’s superstar students who overcame Covid-19 chaos, aced ATAR and fast-tracked their futures.

As the class of 2022 prepare for Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) testing, those who blazed the unique pandemic trail in recent years offer insights into how to combat the challenges.

Universities use ATAR scores, a rank indicating a pupil’s position relative to all of the people in their age group, to help them select students for their courses and admission into most tertiary courses.

ATAR numbers vary between 0.00 and 99.95, with most pupils achieving a score, on average, of 70.00.

In 2021, for example, Queensland’s elite Brisbane Grammar School boasted 11 of just 32 private school students across the entire state to land a perfect 99.95.

Headmaster Anthony Micallef at the time said his school aspired to be “the best school for boys in Australia”.

“The exceptional ATAR results of the class of 2021 were possible as a result of strong academic culture, high co curricular participation, and a focus on student wellbeing,” he said.

Public school Brisbane State High School in February 2022 broke ranks from the new Queensland Certificate of Education system to share its 2021 ATAR results, with six students landing a perfect score of 99.95.

In 2021 not surprisingly English and General Mathematics were the most common subjects for ATAR students.

Biology and Mathematical Methods were next most popular among 20,000 eligible students across Queensland.

Physical Education had 6006 students while Business and Modern History had more than 4000 people in general subjects take the classes.

These were the tips to success from some of Queensland top Year 12 graduates in 2021.

‘I JUST REALLY WANTED TO HAVE FUN’

Having a good time helped Claudia McPherson.

Matthew Flinders Anglican College’s Claudia McPherson revealed her simple approach to mastering ATAR.

Ms McPherson studied a mix of subjects in her final year, including Japanese, literature, physics and maths subjects.

She told the Courier-Mail in 2021 that choosing subjects she enjoyed, rather than those she felt she “should” do, was one of the keys to her success.

“I just really wanted to have fun, I’m very heavily involved in co-curricular activities … and I think having that stuff helped, because I wasn’t just studying all the time so when I was, I actually looked forward to it.”

‘PUT IN THE EFFORT’

Old fashioned hard work paid off for Darcie Spina.

Gilroy Santa Maria College graduate Darcie Spina received six straight A grades and said “putting in the effort” was her recommendation to other students.

“My advice to other students is to honestly try their hardest – I firmly believe any effort will be rewarded,” she said.

‘A LOVE OF LEARNING’

A willingness to learn ensured Elijah Wong’s success.

Brisbane Grammar School student Elijah Wong said ATAR success is all about enjoyment.

“Throughout high school I was particularly passionate about mathematics and science, these subjects are very problem-solving based,” he said.

“I’m motivated by a love of learning and wanting to gain a deeper understanding of how to solve challenges and issues, particularly in health.”

‘AIM FOR 100 PER CENT’

Nothing but the best effort worked for Aaron Palmer.

Toowoomba Grammar School graduate Aaron Palmer completed an anatomy and physiology subject at university while at school and offered one tip.

“My advice to other students is to aim for 100 per cent, because even though you might not achieve it, you will be more than happy with your results that you received by working that hard and aiming that high,” he said.

‘DO NOT COMPARE YOURSELF’

Jasmine Armstrong ensured she focused on her own approach.

Mt Michael’s College student Jasmine Armstrong listed Mathematical Methods as her favourite subject but said it is all about individual effort.

“Do your personal best; do not compare yourself to others because everyone has different strengths and there are many pathways to achieve your goals,” she said.

“Also choose subjects that interest you — you are more likely to achieve when you are engaged.”

‘DEVELOP GOOD HABITS’

Habits helped Lachlan Andrews with his studies.

Lachlan Andrews of Sheldon College enjoyed Chemistry at school and applied good structure around his success.

“Developing good study habits will help you to achieve academically and maintain a good work – life balance and avoid burnout,” he said.

‘EXPLORE YOUR PASSIONS’

Success was all about passion for Pontakorn Anulomsombat.

Brisbane Grammar School’s Pontakorn Anulomsombat used his love of Chemistry to become a better rounded student.

“It’s a super fascinating subject with limitless practical applicability, that helped me to become a critical thinker and a better problem-solver,” he said.

“(My tip to student is) enjoy your time at school – spend it exploring your passions and making memories. Collaboration is valuable – studying with my friends and peers has played a pivotal role in my success.”

‘TRY NEW THINGS’

Samantha Atherton kept her mind clear.

Samantha Atherton said the mentors at Brisbane Girls Grammar School helped develop her skills.

“I am very grateful to have had such passionate teachers who were committed to my education – they are a large part of how I stayed motivated,” she said.

“Specialist Mathematics made me think in ways I never had before.”

And tips?

“Try new things. We should never shy away from doing something just because we are afraid of not being the best.”

‘HAVE FAITH IN YOURSELF’

Hard work was the key for Beyas Basu.

Brisbane State High School’s Beyas Basu insisted “with hard work anything is possible”.

“I really enjoyed German because although it was challenging at times, it was so rewarding to learn another language,” he said.

“Everything has a way of working itself out in the end. Give it your all and have faith in yourself, you got this.”

‘TAKE A BREATHER’

Lucy Cai said your own health is key.

Lucy Cai graduated from St Peters Lutheran College and said looking after No. 1 was part of her routine.

“Even if you don’t achieve the exact result you want, the process of learning and studying is invaluable,” she said.

“Always remember to check in with both your physical and mental health. Set aside time for activities you enjoy and don’t be afraid to ask for help or take a breather when things get stressful.”