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Content provided by Dr Justin Coulson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Dr Justin Coulson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.
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Gap Years, ATAR Myths & the Real Path to Success After School [with Amy Dyer]

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Manage episode 504046064 series 1230931
Content provided by Dr Justin Coulson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Dr Justin Coulson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Exams, ATARs, scaling, university preferences—no wonder Year 12 feels overwhelming. But what if success doesn’t come down to one number? In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson is joined by careers counsellor Amy Dyer to unpack the myths around scaling, ATAR pressure, gap years, trades, and vocational pathways. If your teen feels lost—or if you’re a parent caught in the stress—this conversation will help you breathe easier and see the bigger picture.

KEY POINTS:

  • Scaling and ATARs: what really matters (and what doesn’t).
  • Achievement, capability, enjoyment - what is success?
  • Burnout in young people after school
  • Why a gap year can be the best choice for mental health and clarity.
  • The hidden value of vocational studies and trade careers.
  • How to help kids define success beyond exam scores.
  • Why parents should focus on fit, not prestige, when guiding school and career choices.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“You’re not supposed to know. You just try. Just be productive. Just do something.” — Dr Justin Coulson

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

  1. Start conversations about learning styles and interests - not just grades.
  2. Normalise multiple pathways: university, TAFE, trades, or gap years.
  3. Reduce pressure by reminding your teen that life doesn’t hinge on a single number.
  4. Create safe spaces at home for career and study discussions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  continue reading

1381 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 504046064 series 1230931
Content provided by Dr Justin Coulson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Dr Justin Coulson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Exams, ATARs, scaling, university preferences—no wonder Year 12 feels overwhelming. But what if success doesn’t come down to one number? In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson is joined by careers counsellor Amy Dyer to unpack the myths around scaling, ATAR pressure, gap years, trades, and vocational pathways. If your teen feels lost—or if you’re a parent caught in the stress—this conversation will help you breathe easier and see the bigger picture.

KEY POINTS:

  • Scaling and ATARs: what really matters (and what doesn’t).
  • Achievement, capability, enjoyment - what is success?
  • Burnout in young people after school
  • Why a gap year can be the best choice for mental health and clarity.
  • The hidden value of vocational studies and trade careers.
  • How to help kids define success beyond exam scores.
  • Why parents should focus on fit, not prestige, when guiding school and career choices.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:
“You’re not supposed to know. You just try. Just be productive. Just do something.” — Dr Justin Coulson

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

  1. Start conversations about learning styles and interests - not just grades.
  2. Normalise multiple pathways: university, TAFE, trades, or gap years.
  3. Reduce pressure by reminding your teen that life doesn’t hinge on a single number.
  4. Create safe spaces at home for career and study discussions.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  continue reading

1381 episodes

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