William Clarke College school captain Saskia Cimarosti is flying to Kingscliffe (between Byron Bay and Surfers Paradise) on Friday for a week of sun, socialising and shopping.

``We wanted somewhere close to Surfers but not entirely in the thick of all the action there,'' Saskia said.

``But we're only half an hour away so it will still be close enough to access for clubs, dance parties and all of the schoolies activities which are planned.''

She said her parents had warned her about making wise decisions and staying safe in large groups.

Saskia will be living in a hotel with four other girls, and there will be another 26 girls from her school staying in hotels throughout Kingscliffe.

Each girl paid $400 for their flights and accommodation and made their bookings a year ago.

``Most people had to plan their flights and accommodation this time last year or even earlier,'' Saskia said.

``Some current Year 12 students have already booked their flights for next year's schoolies.''

Saskia said the week would be an opportunity to ``re-energise'' before she embarked on working and university, where she hopes to study sport and exercise science.

``It's a chance to enjoy being independent and get away to spend time with friends at the beach,'' she said.

``I'll try not to think about HSC results until I get back. When it happens, it happens.''

STAYING SAFE:

The NRMA will set up Free2go revive stops along the Pacific Highway to encourage young drivers to pull over and take regular rest stops.Students will enjoy free food and drinks, activities and entertainment at the stops which are open 27 - 29 November and 6-7 December.

The NRMA recommends drivers get out of the car every two hours, check their car is roadworthy before they leave (tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers) and don't talk or text on their phone while driving.

Information: www.befree2go.com.au

The Red Cross has advised students not to hesitate in calling an ambulance if a friend needs help, have plans to get home safely, not to accept drinks from strangers, stay hydrated and eat proper meals.

The Red Cross has also emphasised never to leave friends who have been affected by drugs or alchol by themselves.

Information: www.schoolies.org.au, www.redcross.org.au.