University Senior College

I had a great experience in year 11 and 12 at USC, and I’d definitely recommend high school students think about coming here. The main drawback of course is the fees hike — as Adeleine pointed out the costs are rising which excludes some of the students who were lucky enough to go here in earlier years. If your grades are very competitive you might be lucky enough to get a scholarship to cover some of your fees.
USC has a focus on independent learning. You are expected to be in charge of your own education — prioritising what is important to you and committing yourself without needing to be punished like you are still a small child. For some students this doesn’t help their grades — without the tight structure of a regular school some people can’t get motivated. I found the attitudes at USC liberating — rather than being patronised by condescending elderly teachers I found it was a stimulating environment where I was treated with respect. To get into the school you have to take a short simple ‘aptitude test’ and sit an interview.
The facilities have vastly improved since I was in attendance, however they were pretty darn ok when I was there too. Over the two years I studied a variety of things: Physics, Chemistry, Maths Studies, English Studies, Visual Art, Politics and Drama. This school is well suited to both students who are focused on the humanities and students focussed on the maths and sciences. The teachers on both sides of the spectrum are much better than most of the teachers I’ve had at any other school. They offer a high level of support outside of lectures and tutes — giving feedback on drafts and helping you navigate the SACE system.

USC is a senior college for years 11 and 12. I moved here in the middle of year 11, and will definitely say it was the best decision I could have made at the time, because if I hadn’t I probably would have continued to spend the rest of my school days eating and sleeping in class, skipping class and sunbathing on the oval, you know — the usual. USC basically saved my education.
It’s a lot different to regular schooling — you call teachers by their first names, class hours are similar to that of university, and you don’t wear a uniform. Basically, they prep you for uni. Study is largely based on self discipline and initiative. Mind you, this can be a double-​edged sword. Either you get better and become an independent student, or you don’t find that motivation and get worse.
My favourite subjects included Modern History, English Studies and Art (can you tell I’m right-​brained?) The teachers here are awesome; they played a huge role in students’ development.
I’ve heard the fees have gone up around three times since 2006 when I graduated, but I would highly recommend this college — it’s such a great experience and you make the best of friends. Love it.