It’s All About That Prep – Is your child preparing for SATs, 11+ Exams or GCSEs?

Preparing a child for exams is a well-rounded process that involves not just academic study but also emotional support, time management and a healthy lifestyle. The following is a guide on how to get your child exam-ready:

Understanding the Curriculum

Ensure your child (and you) understand what is going to be covered in the exam. This means reviewing the curriculum and marking key subjects or topics that require more attention. Most GCSE students do not know their exam board!

Tuition Support

If your child is struggling with certain subjects, tuition can offer tailored support. Rarely will children improve passively so plan ahead. Early intervention and support can make a big difference. Ensure your tutor is a qualified teacher and DBS checked.

Create a Study Plan and Break It Down

Create a study schedule with your child that breaks down the syllabus into manageable chunks. Include time for tuition sessions, self-study, and rest. Consistency is the key to success. Ensure that your child has a regular study routine. Even if it is just an hour of focused study every day, consistency helps.

Adequate sleep is essential for concentration and memory.

Mix the subjects to avoid burnout. Vary the subjects your child works on each day. This will help keep them engaged and reduce stress.

Encourage Active Learning

Encourage your child to discuss the material with you, their school teacher or their tutor. Explaining concepts out loud often reinforces understanding. Visual tools like mind maps, coloured revision notes or flashcards help your child remember important points and make revision more interactive. Remember, making revision notes is a technique in itself. They have to be colourful, in short form and not packed together.

Simulate Exam Conditions

Regularly test your child under timed conditions to replicate the exam environment. This will help with time management during the real exam.

Healthy Study Environment

Create a quiet, organised study space. A distraction-free environment can help your child focus better. Minimise distractions and limit access to devices that might distract them (social media, games, etc.) during study hours. This will help maintain concentration.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Encourage your child with positive reinforcement. Focus on their efforts and progress rather than just the outcome. It is normal to feel anxious about exams. Help your child manage stress by staying positive, having a proper sleep routine and having regular but light physical activities.

Praise efforts, not just results. Emphasise the importance of effort and learning rather than just the grades. This encourages a growth mindset. The grades will come!

Health and Well-being

A balanced diet is very important. A well-nourished body supports brain function. Ensure your child has a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and healthy snacks to maintain energy levels. Adequate sleep is essential for concentration and memory. Ensure your child has a regular sleep routine, especially as exams approach.

Regular physical activity reduces stress and boosts mood, so encourage your child to take short breaks to stretch, walk or exercise.

So plan ahead and give your child the best chance of success!

MATHS, ENGLISH & SCIENCE TUITION

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Contact Natalie, the Centre Manager, on 01282 835 638 or book online at kipmcgrath.co.uk/burnleynelson

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