Get practical advice for students and parents ahead of exams from our experts in teaching, learning and wellbeing.
Our Principals and Student Wellbeing Coordinators share their tips.
Best Practice For Exams
Ahead of student examinations for Years 9 to 12, Principal Deb Frizza says this is a great opportunity for parents to check-in with their son.
Parents can help their sons establish a good routine. While many of you will have your methods that work, it is useful at this time to discuss and reflect with your son on how he thinks that the year has begun. Ask him about his daily and weekly routines, what he might need help with, and what he can do to improve his routines.
- How well have our boys established their daily and weekly routines and their schoolwork habits?
- What key messages came out of the parent-teacher interviews and reports provided to date?
- Is home learning completed and reviewed?
- Does schoolwork receive the importance it deserves, and how balanced is the weekly program of activities?
- Is time given to reading? NAPLAN testing consistently shows that boys do not score highly in reading skills. This can be improved simply by increasing the frequency of reading, whether for enjoyment and for study.
- Are good meal routines and plans for the many housekeeping tasks in place?
- What about their sleep routine?
It is essential that by now, students have settled into a good routine so that they can meet increasing class demands, be well-prepared to manage the assignments and assessment tasks that will be set and continue to maintain those other activities that provide a balanced life.
Commencing June 10, Year 9 to 12 students have their mid-year examinations. Our philosophy is to give students gradually increasing opportunities to sit formal exams as they move into the higher levels of their education. With this practice, students learn to better prepare for such formal assessments and develop techniques to reduce any exam-related anxieties. While ‘practice’ (study and revision) may not necessarily “make perfect,” practice certainly increases the likelihood of improved outcomes. Reward tends to follow hard work and commitment.
Teaching and learning are at the core of our College, and we look to our students to set themselves high expectations and constantly strive for their “personal best.” Striving for a “personal best” requires our students, particularly those in Year 11, to prepare and train for examinations NOW.
Prioritising Exam Preparation
Deputy Principal – Teaching and Learning, Brenden Mair shares important points for families and students to understand ahead of exams.
- Exams at this stage are a learning experience. Whilst they are certainly for assessment, learning from the exam experience is equally as important. Identify what can be done to improve for Semester 2 exams.
- Exam preparation cannot start too early. Regular review is essential if students are to perform at their best.
- The exams put students under pressure. Nevertheless, if they are causing distress, you can – and should – do something about it. Let us know at the school and we can help; our Wellbeing Services of the College can certainly assist.
- Students should have a clear understanding what is being assessed in the exam. This will be provided by the teacher and if there are any doubts, clarify directly with the teacher.
- Prioritise health during the exams. Eating well, getting plenty of sleep and managing time will assist students in performing at their best.
- The exams are important, however don’t let them become bigger than they should be. If mistakes are made or the result is disappointing, it’s not the end of the world as there is always next time. Making mistakes is a very powerful way to learn.
We are here to prepare students and support families so that those facing exams do the best that they possibly can. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Wellbeing Support To Boost Exam Success
Student Wellbeing Coordinator and College Counsellor, Scott Cadby revisits the benefits of proper sleep hygiene to better support academic, emotional and physical health.
Adequate sleep is a fundamental pillar of overall wellbeing, comparable to proper nutrition and regular physical activity. Insufficient sleep can negatively impact concentration, emotional stability, and academic performance. Fortunately, by adopting proper sleep hygiene practices, students can enhance their cognitive function, mood, and overall health.
Sleep hygiene encompasses a set of practices that contribute to high-quality sleep. These include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating an optimal sleep environment, and avoiding behaviours that disrupt rest. Adolescence is a critical period for physical and cognitive development, and sufficient sleep is essential for these processes.
To achieve high-quality sleep, consider implementing the following best practices:
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule – Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, including weekends.
Develop a Calming Pre-Bedtime Routine – Engaging in relaxing activities such as reading, stretching, or listening to soothing music can help signal to the body that it is time to rest.
Minimise Exposure to Screens Before Sleep – The blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt the natural sleep cycle. If students must use an electronic device before bed, they should consider switching their device to ‘night mode’.
Avoid Caffeine and Intake in the Evening – Beverages such as coffee, soft drink and energy drinks can interfere with the ability to fall asleep.
Optimise the Sleep Environment – A cool, dark, and quiet bedroom setting can significantly improve sleep quality.
If falling asleep is a challenge, there are several techniques that may help. Engaging in deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help calm the mind and body. As difficult as it may be, students should also avoid watching the clock, as this can increase anxiety about not sleeping. Instead, if sleep does not come within 20-30 minutes, students may get up and engage in a quiet, non-stimulating activity, such as reading a book under dim light, before trying again. Additionally, maintaining a consistent sleep routine and reducing daytime naps can help regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
By prioritising proper sleep hygiene, students can enhance their academic success, emotional well-being, and physical health. Establishing healthy sleep habits now will serve as a foundation for long-term wellbeing and productivity.
