Supporting your child with Exam preparation:

There are key points in your child’s academic career when students take formal exams.

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Year 6 – SATS

Year 11 – GCSEs

Year 13s – A-Levels, BTECs, AS Levels, T-levels, GCSE retakes + other vocational qualifications.

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Needless to say, this can be an extremely anxious and stressful period for students and pupils. Supporting your child before and during the exam period, by creating a positive home learning environment and providing resources, guidance and emotional support, could ultimately be of great benefit to their ultimate success.  

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Below, we have outlined some key ways in which you can support your child before and during the exam period. Please note that this is predominantly aimed at the formal external exams in Year 11 and Year 13, although some of the information will support pupils and students in younger years.

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1. Understand the Exam Format: Familiarise yourself with the format and content of the exams your child will be taking. Different exams may have different requirements and structures, so it's essential to know what your child needs to prepare for. Do ask your child’s teachers during parents’ evenings/meetings – they will appreciate the interest!

2. Establish a Study Schedule: Help your child create a study schedule that covers all the topics or subjects they need to revise. Ensure that they allocate enough time for each subject and incorporate breaks to prevent burnout.

3. Provide a Quiet and Organised Study Space: Create a designated study area that is free from distractions. Ensure your child has all the necessary study materials, such as textbooks, notebooks, and stationery, readily available. This does not necessarily you have to purchase these yourselves, your child’s school may provide these. Do ask, if you are not sure.

4. Access to Learning Resources: Make sure your child has access to relevant study materials, including textbooks, past papers, online resources, and reference books. Libraries and educational websites can be valuable sources of information. Although, do ensure that you double check with your school to see if they provide any of these or provide a discount (as they make bulk order). Schools may also pay for software licenses, so please do enquire about this.

5. Encourage Effective Study Techniques: Teach your child about effective study techniques, such as summarizing information, creating flashcards, making mind maps, and practicing with sample questions. Help them identify which methods work best for them.

6. Set Realistic Goals: Work with your child to set achievable goals for each study session and for the overall exam. Setting specific, measurable, and time-bound goals can help keep them motivated.

7. Provide Emotional Support: Encourage your child to talk about their worries and concerns related to exams. Offer emotional support by letting them know that you are there to help and listen. Help them manage stress and anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. However, if you are concerned about the levels of anxiety, do speak to their school who may be able to offer alternative help or may recommend seeing a doctor or other health professional.

8. Review Progress Regularly: Check in with your child regularly to review their progress. Discuss what they have learned, areas where they need improvement, and adjustments to their study plan if necessary.

9. Stay Informed About School Policies: Keep up to date with school policies regarding exams, including dates, rules, and any special accommodations that may be available for students with specific needs.

10. Healthy Lifestyle: Encourage your child to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the exam period. Ensure they get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in physical activity. A balanced lifestyle can have a positive impact on their concentration and overall well-being.

11. Practice Past Papers: Past exam papers can provide valuable practice. Encourage your child to work through past papers under timed conditions to get a feel for the exam format and improve their time management skills.

12. Consider a Tutor if Needed: If your child is struggling with specific subjects or topics, consider hiring a tutor to provide additional support and clarification.

13. Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate your child's achievements and milestones during the preparation process. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.

 

Remember that every child is unique, so do adapt your support based upon your child's individual needs and preferences. Your encouragement and involvement can make a significant difference in their exam preparation and overall academic success.