Key Message: Make Every Day Count!

As we approach exam season, it’s easy to think of exams as distant events—but they come around quickly! Students will also be completing formally assessed components throughout the year. This webpage is here to help you Stay on Track as you prepare for success.

Important Dates for Year 11

• November Mocks: Week beginning 11th November 2024

• Report 1 Sent Home: Week beginning 9th December 2024

• Year 11 Parents’ Evening: Thursday 16th January 2025 (16:00 – 19:00)

• February Mocks: Week beginning 24th February 2025

• Report 2 Sent Home: Week beginning 24th March 2025

• GCSE Examinations Begin: Week beginning 5th May 2025

 Exam Information and Advice for Students

Make sure you’re familiar with all the key details in the Exam Information Booklet, which outlines everything you need for the June/July 2025 exam series.

Exams Information Booklet 2024-2025

Keep checking this page for exam updates, revision tips, and more. Be sure to read the booklet for the best revision strategies.

On Track for Success Booklet

Guidance for Parents

Exam time can be stressful for both students and parents. It’s common for parents to feel anxious about their child’s study habits, well-being, and results. Sometimes, parents may also relive their own stressful school memories, which can make supporting their child harder. Here's how you can help:

Before the Exams:

• Plan Ahead: Understand what’s expected of your child, including exam dates and coursework deadlines.

• Address Difficult Subjects: Encourage your child to face challenging topics head-on, as avoiding them will only increase stress later on.

• Offer Support: If your child is worried about their progress, reassure them that doing their best is what matters most. Even if they don’t get their expected grades, there will be future opportunities.

• Know the Revision Resources: Find out about school revision sessions, recommended revision techniques, and helpful online resources. If in doubt, reach out to the school directly.

Tips for Revision:

• Encourage Breaks: Regular breaks help students stay focused and reduce stress. Even a short time to relax—such as listening to music or watching a favourite show—can help.

• Promote Healthy Habits: Ensure your child is eating healthy snacks, staying hydrated, and getting exercise. A short walk can work wonders for clearing the mind.

• Be Supportive: Offer a listening ear, but avoid pushing them to talk if they’re not ready. Sometimes, they may just need a bit of space.

After the Exams:

• Recognize Mixed Emotions: After the exams, there may be a mix of relief and anxiety. Give your child space to decompress, but also offer support if they want to talk.

• Celebrate the Effort: Plan something nice to do together after exams to reward their hard work, no matter how they feel the exams went.

How to Manage Stress

Stress is a normal part of exam preparation. The key is to recognize it and manage it effectively. Stress becomes a problem when it’s ignored or ignored in unhealthy ways.

For Parents:

• Don’t Over-Question: Asking your child about how they feel after every exam can add pressure. Be a good listener instead.

• Stay Positive: Even if you’re worried about your child’s performance, now is not the time to criticise past habits. Encourage them to try their best.

• Keep Communication Open with Teachers: If you’re concerned, speak with teachers to get an accurate sense of how your child is managing.

• Expect Some Tension: It’s normal to experience some mood swings or frustration during exams. However, if your child is struggling significantly—such as with sleep or withdrawing completely—it’s time to reach out for additional support.

For Students:

• Take Time to Relax: Set aside time each day to unwind—listen to music, watch TV, or go for a walk.

• Focus on Effective Revision: Break study sessions into manageable chunks (about an hour each), with short breaks in between. Writing notes can be more effective than simply reading.

• Prioritise Sleep and Nutrition: Avoid excessive caffeine or junk food. Good sleep and healthy meals help keep your mind sharp.

 Information About the New GCSE Grades 

 Link to GCSE Grades Explanation

English GCSE Tips

MET Maths Expertise Tower

Department of Education information regarding New GCSEs

If you are an ex-student and haven’t yet collected your GCSE certificates from previous years, please contact the school office during normal hours.

Certificates are confidential and must be collected by the student with photo ID (e.g, driver’s licence, passport or college ID page). Alternatively, a parent or friend (over the age of 18) can collect them with written authorization from the student, along with their own photo ID.

Regulations about using calculators in Exams
Internal Appeals Procedure
Word Processor Policy Statement

JCQ Information for Candidates – Non Examination Assessments 
JCQ Information for Candidates – Written Exams
JCQ Information for Candidates – Privacy Notice
JCQ Information for Candidates – Onscreen Tests
JCQ Information for Candidates – Controlled Assessments
JCQ Access Arrangements – Data Protection Notice

For tips and advice please click on the logos to visit the following site: 

If you would like to view more past papers or want more information on the examining boards, please click on the logos to visit the following sites:

It is important that you turn up to your exam fully prepared and with the correct equipment – clear pencil case, black pen, pencil, eraser and ruler. The full list of equipment is available in our Exams Booklet 2023/24.

Classroom expectations
Expectations around the school site

The school's Attendance Policy can be found on the Trust website.