As the clock struck 2pm on November 9, Hastings year 12 students downed pens and walked out of the exam room for the final time.

Years of schooling, months of preparation and many late night study sessions are now behind them.

A theory drama test wrapped up this year’s HSC and for those at St Columba Anglican School the feeling was overwhelming.

An intense two hour essay exam was the last hurdle for the students.

Jazzy Miles, Kiani Cooper and Jacob Killick were the last out of the exam hall.

“I don’t even know how to describe it. I feel like the world has lifted off my shoulders,” Jazzy said. 

“My school has been so supportive but I feel like I put so much pressure on myself to do well, but now I’m free to be what I want to be.”

“I feel absolutely amazing. You don’t know how you’ll feel until you finish,” Kiani added.

“I felt it wasn’t as hard as the trials. We knew we had to buckle down, but I do feel the pressure we put on ourselves was huge because we all wanted to do our best.”

The students had to do a practical exam including a solo and a group performance.

Jacob said the pressure wasn’t as intense for him.

“I didn’t put much pressure on myself. I know life goes on after the HSC and I know I’ve done my best,” he said.

“I’ll have a bit of a break now and have a gap year in 2019. All the hard work has paid off now.”

Ella Lakin, drama teacher, said she was proud of her students.

“You worry if they still have the stamina at the end of it all,” she said.

“It’s a big journey. I’m incredible proud. You become very close to them because you’re there for the journey. 

“You get to help them and help navigate them to the finish line (and) it’s a great feeling.”

Results for the HSC will be sent to students on Thursday, December 13.