By Mia Smit
Ever wondered what happens during the college day as a Year 12 student athlete at Central Coast Sports College (CCSC)? I’ve been at CCSC since Year 7 as a part of the Netball Program. Let me share what a typical day looks like for me, including how I balance netball training and schoolwork.
7:30am: Getting on the private CCSC bus
My typical day at CCSC starts before I set foot onto campus. We wear comfortable, practical and unisex uniforms (consisting of black shorts and a black sports jersey or polo). All student athletes wear the same training uniform from Kindergarten to Year 12. The college operates private bus services for student athletes across the Central Coast. We have allocated buses and pick-up and drop-off stops. Having a simple training uniform (that doesn’t require ironing) and a private bus has taken the stress and pressure off our family, enabling my sister and me to get to college on time, safely and conveniently. I also get to chat with student athletes in my year and, as a senior, keep an eye on the younger ones and be a role model.
9am: Roll call and netball training
College starts at 9am with a roll call in our homeroom. After roll call, I head straight to netball training sessions. Programming runs to a fairly consistent format each week:
- Monday: Strength training at Alpha Performance Centre in Gosford. This training prevents injuries and supports us in becoming stronger players on the court.
- Tuesday: We work on drills to build up our core skills.
- Wednesday: It’s match play day, where we utilise our strength and conditioning, and put our core skills to the test on the court.
- Thursday: Prehab, warm-ups, team drills, and match play.
- Friday: Rest ahead of our weekend games.
My coaches are Jessica Wasson and Richanda Kassman. Having been part of the program since Year 7, I’ve noticed a big change in my confidence, strength, and love for the game.
11am: Daily check-in and goal setting
After netball training, I head into my classroom for our daily “check-in”. Our class discusses the goals for the day and shares highlights. We do this to connect as a class and set expectations, which we then evaluate at the end of our day during reflection time.
After check-in, I get to move to my workspace. Our classrooms are set up in an office-style with an open plan, a small group room, and a small kitchenette that my classmates and I can use during our breaks. This adult-like learning environment is preparing me for life after college, enabling me to learn independently, be autonomous, and experience what a professional day might look and feel like.
I’ve had the same homeroom teacher and college adviser since Year 10. Homeroom teachers keep in touch with our families so they know how we’re doing and can help support us to be our best. The role of advisers is to help nurture our interests and ambitions, helping us to stay motivated in chasing our goals.
Having the same advisers and teachers means that I’ve built a strong foundation and support system in the classroom. With an adviser who knows my past work, my future ambitions, and my current workload inside and outside of the classroom, I’ve flourished.
12:20pm: Cafe lunch and outdoor play
We get a 40-minute lunch break. During the first half, I’m usually out on the field kicking a footy or chatting with my friends at the picnic tables. The second half is our time in the college cafe. Every day, we get our pick of a salad bar with fresh vegetables, fruits, and salads, as well as options like sandwiches and yoghurt. Each day has a special main meal. I have to say Friday is my favourite: burger day.
1pm: Back to class for my Personal Exploration Project
At CCSC, we do Big Picture Learning, which means my program is designed around my goals and interests. In Senior College, I work on my own maths program with Maths pathways and my Personal Exploration Project. Since Year 10, I’ve also been fortunate to undertake work experience every term, through the college’s Learn Through Interests program. It’s been awesome for learning on the job and creating connections with employers, especially in industries like event management and marketing. Some of my friends are doing course certificates to advance their careers early, and the college supports them.
As a Year 12 student athlete, my workload has increased. Since I want to go to university, I’m working on a Senior Thesis, an autobiography, a video profile, and a digital portfolio to showcase everything I’ve learned.
Throughout the afternoon, we have two 10-minute breaks. During our breaks, I head outside for a walk, talk to friends, or make tea in the kitchenette.
3:40pm: Daily check-out and reflection
To finish the day, similarly to how we started, our class does a “check-out” where we reflect on the day. Then, at 4pm, it’s time to go home, and I make my way to the bus.
Want to join us at Central Coast Sports College?
While I was lucky enough to start in Year 7, it’s never too late to help your child discover what their potential could look like in a different learning environment. If you’re interested in CCSC, I recommend booking a tour to visit our beautiful campus and learn more.