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:
Connect with Amy Dyer
More parenting support: happyfamilies.com.au
Check out our "Failed at School, Successful at Life" podcast series [episodes #875-879] 

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

Exams, ATARs, scaling, university preferences&mdash;no wonder Year 12 feels overwhelming. But what if success doesn&rsquo;t come down to one number? In this episode, Dr Justin Coulson is joined by careers counsellor <a href="https://www.redlandspsychologists.com.au/team-page/amy_dyer/">Amy Dyer</a> to unpack the myths around scaling, ATAR pressure, gap years, trades, and vocational pathways. If your teen feels lost&mdash;or if you&rsquo;re a parent caught in the stress&mdash;this conversation will help you breathe easier and see the bigger picture.
KEY POINTS:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Scaling and ATARs: what really matters (and what doesn&rsquo;t).</li>
<li aria-level="1">Achievement, capability, enjoyment - what is success?</li>
<li aria-level="1">Burnout in young people after school</li>
<li aria-level="1">Why a gap year can be the best choice for mental health and clarity.</li>
<li aria-level="1">The hidden value of vocational studies and trade careers.</li>
<li aria-level="1">How to help kids define success beyond exam scores.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Why parents should focus on fit, not prestige, when guiding school and career choices.</li>
</ul>
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE: &ldquo;You&rsquo;re not supposed to know. You just try. Just be productive. Just do something.&rdquo; &mdash; Dr Justin Coulson
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Connect with <a href="https://www.redlandspsychologists.com.au/team-page/amy_dyer/">Amy Dyer</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">More parenting support: <a href="http://happyfamilies.com.au">happyfamilies.com.au</a></li>
<li aria-level="1">Check out our "<a href="https://happyfamilies.com.au/podcast/episode/875-failed-at-school-successful-at-life-ian-steel">Failed at School, Successful at Life</a>" podcast series [episodes #875-879]&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:
<ol>
<li aria-level="1">Start conversations about learning styles and interests - not just grades.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Normalise multiple pathways: university, TAFE, trades, or gap years.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Reduce pressure by reminding your teen that life doesn&rsquo;t hinge on a single number.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Create safe spaces at home for career and study discussions.</li>
</ol>

The Happy Families Podcast with Dr. Justin Coulson is designed for the time poor parent who just wants answers now. Every day Justin and his wife Kylie provide practical tips and a common sense approach to parenting that Mums and Dads all over the world are connecting with. Justin and Kylie have 6 daughters and they regularly share their experiences of managing a busy household filled with lots of challenges and plenty of happiness. For real and practicable advice from people who understand and appreciate the challenges of a time poor parent, listen to Justin and Kylie and help make your family happier.

The Happy Families Podcast with Dr. Justin Coulson is designed for the time poor parent who just wants answers now. Every day Justin and his wife Kylie provide practical tips and a common sense approach to parenting that Mums and Dads all over the world are connecting with. Justin and Kylie have 6 daughters and they regularly share their experiences of managing a busy household filled with lots of challenges and plenty of happiness. For real and practicable advice from people who understand and appreciate the challenges of a time poor parent, listen to Justin and Kylie and help make your family happier.

The Happy families podcast with Dr. Justin Coulson is designed for the time poor parent who just wants answers now.

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

Gap Years, ATAR Myths & the Real Path to Success After School [with Amy Dyer]

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/fa326977-3de5-4283-9b8b-af3500c58607/clips/45881417-9f58-481d-b770-b33f00c7ca82/transcript