Among 13 from the school qualified to mark HSC papers, it does mean a lot of additional working hours after the school day is done.
But it comes as a benefit to the school, with these teachers able to bring their learnings of what they see from the results back to their local teaching and student body.
Assisting with marking duties this year are Michelle Hindriks (chemistry), Alex Glowrey (biology), Brenda Norman (PDHPE), Anita Ingram (extension maths), Nicole Jenkins (community and family studies) and Robyn Kiley (advanced English).
Mrs Kiley, who is also co-deputy principal, said Deniliquin High School has a strong tradition of HSC marking at the school.
She said it reflects well on Deni High that it has so many teachers that are qualified to mark papers.
“The number of HSC markers we have at DHS is extraordinary given we are in a rural area,” Mrs Kiley said.
“There can be a perception that because of our location and that we are a public school, that the quality of education our students receive is compromised.
“This could not be further from the truth, and we are incredibly proud of the experience and knowledge our teachers hold.
“There is a rigorous application process to mark the Higher School Certificate examination responses, and teachers must be experienced in their respective subjects to be eligible to apply.
“Most HSC markers are from Sydney schools, including private and selective schools.
“Bearing this in mind, it is incredible that so many teachers of DHS have been involved in HSC marking operations over the years in varied capacities.”
Mrs Kiley said the whole school community benefits from teachers being involved in the HSC exams process.
“HSC marking is considered the best professional learning a Stage 6 teacher can do, as we are exposed to students’ responses from the most elite schools across the state.
“We take back what we learn through this experience to our faculties, and this then flows into our programming, teaching and learning activities, and assessment practices.
“The benefits are immense.”
Mrs Kiley said marking can take up to three weeks, with some teachers marking for up to five hours each night.
Now taking place using a secure program online, she said it is an improvement on teachers having to travel to Sydney to mark papers like in the past.
“Our teachers’ preparedness to go to these lengths to be involved in HSC marking is a testament to their commitment to their students and growth as teachers.”
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