A career as a maths and science teacher is a step closer for Chancellor College Year 11 student Kelsey Hyra who recently scored top marks in an Education subject at USC.

Kelsey gained a high distinction through Headstart, a USC program that allows Year 11 or 12 students to complete first-year university subjects while still at school.

Kelsey, 16, who has enrolled in a second USC subject this semester, said it was a great opportunity to get an early start to university.

“I have always wanted to be a teacher and love maths and science. Thanks to Headstart, I can start a combined Secondary Education and Science degree at USC with two subjects already completed.”

Year 10, 11 and 12 students and their parents are invited to find out more about the Headstart program at an information session at USC’s Sunshine Coast campus on Thursday 13 September from 4-6.30pm.

They can talk with staff about the application process, eligibility, costs and available courses and hear current students share their Headstart experience.

Under the program, students gain credits towards their Queensland Certificate of Education and a USC degree at the same time.

They can choose from about 80 first-year subjects that build on their favourite subjects at school, suit their career aspirations or match their interests.

With no tuition fees for the first subject and a reduced fee for a second subject, Headstart saves on the overall cost of a USC degree. USC scholarships are also available.

The information session will also cover the entry options for students including Early Offer Guarantee which offers Year 12 students an early and guaranteed place at USC in November, and University pathways and preparation courses.

Parents can also learn more about USC’s parent lounge – a dedicated online space filled with information and tips for parents with children considering university study.

For Kelsey, it was an easy decision to add university-level subjects to her senior study load.

“Headstart is a great opportunity to see what university is like,” she said. “USC offers subjects I am interested in and it is great to have the convenience of the USC campus right next to our school.”

Kelsey has no doubts about what she wants to do after high school.

“My joy of school comes from teachers who made learning interesting and made me think about things in ways I have not thought about before,” she said. “I want to be that teacher that makes students want to come to school and learn.”

Register for the Headstart information evening.

— Clare McKay