PARENT/CARER HANDBOOK
HOW CAN I... ...SUPPORT MY SON/DAUGHTER?
A Levels are challenging as well as very rewarding. Although A Level students are expected to be more independent in their approach to learning they still benefit greatly from additional support in a number of areas.
ORGANISATION
STUDYING
• Many students appreciate help with organising their time and how they record important information such as assessments, deadlines and additional study.
• Developing good study habits is one of the best ways to ensure success at A Level. The student handbook contains advice on this, and your son/ daughter will receive additional subject-specific advice from their teachers.
• It is important for students to find a suitable, quiet space to work where they won’t be distracted. • With more time for independent study some students need help getting into a routine which works for them.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING • Studying for A Levels can be stressful. We offer a parents’ information evening about ways of managing stress in order to support with this. • Many students need some encouragement to take part in a range of extra-curricular activities. Being active and having varied interests is a good way to combat stress. • Students who have part-time jobs may need some encouragement to keep the number of hours they work to a manageable level.
POSITIVITY • There is a big step up between GCSEs and A Levels. Some students can feel discouraged when they start A Levels and find them difficult. It is important to remember that this is normal and to stay positive. We know that all of our students can be successful if they follow our advice and persevere.
• Students need to recap the information they have learnt regularly, right from the beginning of the course. Many students would appreciate support in planning and organising this. • Encouraging students to try new revision techniques is important, as often the techniques they used at GCSE will not be as effective at A Level. In particular it is important that students spend a large proportion of their revision time testing themselves without using their notes as this helps to build memory.
PURPOSE • Students often benefit from being able to talk about the many opportunities that are available to them after they finish college. Exploring some of these options with them can help to motivate students. • If you would like more information about how you can support your son/daughter with their future choices please engage with some of our parental information events or contact our careers team.
2021/22
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