Children Exam Preparation - A & AS Levels facts and ideas

• Keep on top of things: Just letting a little thing slip can have a knock on effect throughout your prep. Put a list together of what needs to be done and stick to it, if you miss something just go back to it.

• Discipline: You will have had a lot more freedom to study at your own pace in sixth form but this can lead to problems. It is important to keep your eye on your goal and stay focused.

• Plan: Know what needs to be done and plan for it in advance

• Play: Remember to take some time out and enjoy what you are doing - just make sure the balance is right!!!

• Peace and quiet: When you do play be a loud as you like and blow off steam, but when it’s time to study we recommend you find somewhere peaceful and quiet where you can focus your mind. It is also a good idea to choose a space that you associate with study so it is easy to get started and not become distracted.

• Try not to stress: if you find things are getting on top of you, don’t let the stress build up. There are lots of things you can do to de-stress; you may want to talk with friends or family about what is bothering you - ‘a problem shared…’ Meditation is also good to unclutter your brain and get you back on track. Exercise is a great de-stressor!

• When should I start? It is recommended that you start your prep no later than 6 weeks prior to the exam. You will need to start studying subjects you find a little harder first to get more study time in. Draw up a schedule and stick to it.

• Tutor: If you know you need good results in certain subjects to move into the career you have a chosen, KalliKids strongly recommends the use of a Tutor, especially if you struggle in the subject. Never be embarrassed to ask for help, especially if it means you will achieve your goal!

• Do you have all the notes you need to revise? If you have missed some classes you may be missing notes to revise from. Check with your teacher or try the BBC’s Bitesize site.

• Old exam papers: you can get hold of old papers to give you a feel of what the exam will be like - this does not mean these questions will be on your paper!!

• Oh and don’t forget to go to classes!
   

A good tutor will be able to guide you and your child through exam prep and subject matter, spot areas of weakness and be able to use techniques that make the subject clearer as well as helping you and your child prepare for the exam. When choosing on a tutor for your child you may wish to consider the following:

• Has the tutor been recommended to you, or perhaps they are KalliKids accredited?

• Do you need to provide stationery or equipment? Do these need to be purchased before the lessons start?

• Are there any text books that you need to order or pay for in advance?

AQA –One of the leading providers of GCSEs and A Levels. Used by most secondary schools and colleges in the UK.

Edexcel – Considered the UK’s largest awarding organisation, they offer both academic and vocational qualifications and testing to schools and colleges.

OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations) – Over 13,000 centres choose OCR for their A Levels and GCSEs.

Qualifications

AS (Advanced Subsidiary) Level and A (Advanced) Level qualifications will generally take two years to complete full-time, however they are also available to part-time.

Qualifications of teachers/tutors

There is no minimum qualification required to tutor at home in the UK at present, however we would recommend you ask to see copies of qualifications held.

Exam time can be very stressful for children and young adults, especially if a chosen career path requires good results in a subject they find challenging. The use of a tutor at this time will give them the tools required to do the best they possibly can, whilst building their confidence for the exam.

Exam Preparation tips.

How to prepare for an exam.

Advice from a psychologist about dealing with stress and anxiety around exam time and why cramming is not a good idea.

Mr Bean Prepares for his Exam!