Year 13 have been focused on developing the depth and breadth of their A Level knowledge and understanding in preparation for their final exams over the sunny Easter break. They begin study leave on Monday 13 May when exams also start. Subject lessons continue as normal during study leave so students can come in and work with teachers on specific aspects of their courses when they are not in the exam hall, if they wish to. Such opportunities are invaluable and I would encourage students to complete as many past papers as possible under timed conditions and ask their teachers to mark and feedback on their answers. Mastering their subjects in this way is key to success at A Level. I mentioned the value of constructing a 'Nightmare Exam paper' to include questions on all the topics they would least like to see in their final exam! Creating model answers for the topics they find most challenging will ensure nothing they see on their exam papers is as bad!

BTEC students in Year 13 continue to work on multiple assignments and have a busy term ahead of them too. With the new course our Year 12 BTEC Sports students are on, for the first time we have controlled assessments and exams for them to take. As we know, nothing ever stays the same, especially in education! The bulk of Year 12 exams will take place in the week commencing 10 June and the results will form the basis of their UCAS predicted grades. We are encouraging them to spend time consolidating their knowledge and understanding regularly - 15 hours plus per week of independent study will make all the difference to their outcomes.  This is always a busy, formative and exciting term. Bring it on!