Why English Matters for Year 11 and 12 Students – and How Parents Can Help

In the Australian education system, English isn’t just another subject – it’s the cornerstone of success. As one of the mandatory subjects students take in high school, a strong grasp of English can shape both academic results and future opportunities.

For parents of Year 11 and 12 students, understanding the role English plays can make all the difference in guiding your teen towards achievement – whether that’s in school, university, or the workplace.

Highschool students sitting an exam.

Building Strong Communication Skills

English forms the backbone of effective communication. Whether your child is writing an essay, delivering a presentation, or participating in a job interview, clear and confident communication is key.

High school English develops skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking – abilities that are valued in every career. In fact, over 80% of employers say strong communication skills are a deciding factor in hiring.

English and Academic Success

Passing English is non-negotiable for an ATAR and a high school certificate. It also plays a big part in university entry. Strong performance in English can lift ATAR scores and improve access to competitive courses.

English also develops critical thinking skills that transfer to other subjects. Students confident in English often perform better in areas like History, Social Sciences, and even subjects with written reports.

Preparing for the ATAR English Exams

In Years 11 and 12, English assessments become more demanding. The ATAR English exams test students on literature, language, and written composition.

The most successful students practise essay writing, take mock exams, and review detailed feedback. While many students turn to online AI or automated marking tools, these can miss the nuance and complexity of senior English tasks.

That’s where English Experts can make a real difference. We provide online ATAR English practice essays with personalised marking and feedback from real ATAR English professionals – the same calibre of marking your child will face in the final exams. This means students don’t just get a score; they receive clear, targeted advice to refine their writing, boost confidence, and improve marks.

Parents can help by encouraging regular essay practice and ensuring feedback comes from experienced markers who understand the ATAR system inside and out.

Why Essays Matter

Essay writing is a core skill in senior English. It teaches students how to:

• Develop a clear thesis

• Support ideas with evidence

• Structure and link arguments logically

However, simply writing essays isn’t enough – students need expert feedback to know exactly where and how to improve. That’s why English Experts is such a powerful tool. Our team of experienced ATAR markers provide constructive, professional feedback that goes far beyond generic online comments. This ensures students learn how to refine their arguments, strengthen analysis, and meet the marking criteria that will matter most in their final exams.

Nearly all teachers agree that strong writing ability improves overall school performance – and with the right guidance, improvement can be both faster and more sustainable.

Real-World Advantages of English Skills

The benefits of English extend far beyond school. From writing a stand-out resume to communicating effectively in team projects, English proficiency makes a difference.

A recent survey found that 70% of employers look for strong writing skills when hiring. Clear communication can set candidates apart in any industry.

Encouraging a Love of Reading

Literature isn’t just about novels – it’s about understanding different perspectives and cultures. Reading widely builds vocabulary, empathy, and analytical thinking.

Parents can foster this by:

• Encouraging a variety of books and authors

• Discussing what their teen is reading

• Starting a family book club

Students who read regularly are 25% more likely to succeed academically and professionally.

A stack of books.

Setting Up for Future Opportunities

Strong English skills open doors. Many tertiary courses, from engineering to business, expect a solid command of written and spoken English. Graduates with strong communication skills can earn up to 20% more over their careers.

Final Word for Parents

English is more than a subject – it’s a life skill. By supporting your child’s learning, encouraging good study habits, and helping them find enjoyment in reading and writing, you’re giving them an advantage that will last long after graduation.

By prioritizing English education, we equip our students not only for academic success but also for the personal and professional challenges that await them in the future.