Year 11 Steps for Success

Success for our Year 11s each year, is a main focus for our school and we want every student to achieve things they never thought they could. A key to this is good preparation, revision and good habits for students. 

Our Year 11 Steps to Success is key information for students to ensure they feel ready, and confident for their GCSE exams.

All Year 11 students will be required throughout the year to attend Academic Enrichment. These 6-week blocks are mandatory for students, and are hugely helpful with preparation for both mock exam periods and GCSE exams. 

In the autumn term, and spring term, six weeks prior to mock exams, students will be required to attend the 45-minute session 4. These sessions are timetabled for students and will cover both core and options subjects.

 

As GCSE exams start, students will be required to attend Session 0 and Session 4. These are pre-exam classes and are hosted by subject teachers for the next exam to take place. Students are timetabled for all pre-exam classes and interventions. These are an opportunity for teachers to go through past papers and walking through example answers ahead of an exam.

For certain subjects, we host an ‘all-inclusive’ extended session from 3pm - 4:30pm. This is a longer session to run through key revision and topics. Students are provided with a hot meal during this session also as it is later after the school day has finished.

For students who are not required at a Session 0 or 4 due to their own individual exam timetable, they will be required to attend a Practice Time session in the Conference Room. this is a 45-minute session where students will independently revise using revision booklets for their chosen core or options subject that they would like to revise.

Revision Tips

Every one revises differently, and each student will find what works best for themselves, but key tips we advise include: 

  • Create a revision timetable: Have structure to what you will be revising and when. Include short breaks and schedule rest days also to ensure you don’t tire yourself out. 
  • Flashcards: Just like you’ve done throughout school, flash cards are great way to support your memory of topics to use during your exams. 
  • Past papers: Using resources available in the Library at school, and trying previous years’ exam papers will prepare you for how questions are written, and also offer a similar experience especially if you complete the paper in the same time duration that the real exam is.

Positive Habits

We know how important creating strong, positive habits can have on our students, and it’s something we implement through our students’ time at Little Lever School. But in particular in Year 11, part of Steps to Success is about taking responsibility (one of our core values) for creating and supporting yourself with positive habits. Here are some examples of actions and habits we recommend and why.

Keeping energy levels at a steady level

Throughout exams, Year 11 students can receive a free breakfast at 8am, like all students in school. However Year 11 can also grab themselves a banana, plus free tea and coffee to support with their energy levels, revision and as a nice treat for all their hard work. These are available in the canteen. Bananas help with cognitive function, as well as supporting your mood regulations. The key nutrients in bananas balance focus and energy throughout study sessions and during exams! 

Healthy eating

Ensuring you’re fuelling your brain and body during GCSE preparation and examinations is fundamental. Some key foods to think about including in your study session snacks and meals through this period are:

  • Protein: great for supporting brain health and sustaining good energy levels. An extra boost comes from oily fish which contain lots of omega-3 for that brain health again! 
  • Whole grains: Think brown bread, brown rice, porridge. All great slow releasing carbohydrates to help keep energy levels steady. 
  • Berries: Any fruit is great, but berries are packed with vitamin C which is good for lots of things but in particular - reducing stress and supporting to keep your immune system healthy during exam season.
  • Water: Make sure to drink plenty water and prioritise good hydration. It’ll help keep you feeling alert and focused. 

Good sleep  

You need lots of rest during Year 11, and in general as teens, this age group does need a lot of sleep to support cognitive and physical development. Ensure for 8-10 hours each night, even during exams, where you might want to fit in last minute revision. But sleep hugely helps with exam performance and ensuring that you feel alert to absorb information during revision sessions and lessons at school.