Exam season has begun and young people across Swansea are now taking their final exams and assessments for GCSEs, A Levels and vocational qualifications.
It’s natural that this will be a stressful time for some students and their families.
While many people are still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, it’s important to recognise that mental health strain and pressure are common and that steps can be taken to ease anxiety.
Here, Mark Jones, Principal of Gower College Swansea, shares some simple tips for those facing exams, and the parents and carers who support them.
At Gower College Swansea, our commitment to learners stretches beyond providing top-tier education.
We know that helping young people to achieve their goals requires us to provide tailored wellbeing and mental health support at every stage of their studies, whenever they feel they need us.
Wellbeing should always be your priority
- Write your worries down: Writing down the things you are stressed about will short-circuit the habit that keeps you in a state of worry. Letting go of the things you can’t control is part of the process of having a clear mind before you revise.
- Schedule breaks and don’t forget to see friends: Guilt can be a common feeling shared by many during exam/assessment season but it’s important to plan breaks, activities and time to see friends. A relaxed mind will help you retain more information.
- Eat well, sleep well and get outside: No need for further explanation. You and your mind will thank you later.
Get the most from revision
- Prepare for the exams: Sometimes examinations and assessments focus on key areas of a course. Speak to your tutor to see if this will apply to you and, if so, prioritise your time on those areas that will feature in the exams and assessments.
- Set realistic goals: Create a calendar noting the dates of your exams. Then, work backwards and write down which dates you want to have each subject studied by. This will help you visualise a timeline and work towards achieving your goals.
- Find a study space that works for you: Find a study zone and make it a space you want to go to. This could be having a motivational quote on the wall or a motivational playlist.
- Work through past papers: We offer all our students access to past papers to help them prepare for the real thing. Once you feel like you’ve studied enough, use past papers to test you on which areas need more revision.
And don't forget...
- Believe in yourself: You will go through your notes twice, three times, maybe four times, but remember to trust in yourself and what you know and try not to overthink it.
- Exams and grades don’t define you as a person: It’s so important to remember that exams and your marks don’t define you as a person. Whatever results you achieve, you will be on the right path for your future and the College can support you every step of the way.
- Stay positive: Be proud of who you are and what you’ve studied already. You’re doing an incredible job, just keep going.
#GetSet for exam and assessment season