Exams and how to prepare English Language is compulsory at GCSE level and is fully examined with two papers (except I-GCSE or WJEC as these also include NEA Non Examined Assessments). Most boards use a 5-question paper for both papers. They are graded using the numerical 1 to 9 grading system where a 9 is… Read More »

If you constantly put revision off, consider it may be because the methods you are using are not right for you. Fortunately, there are lots of different strategies you can use that you may not have come across yet. Let’s explore four tools that you can use to transform revision from a chore to something… Read More »

The Examiner’s Role Examiners for the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) are tasked with an immense responsibility: fairly assessing the efforts of students across GCSE and A-Level subjects. While their primary focus is on awarding marks to reflect learners’ knowledge and skills, there are recurring issues that repeatedly surface and cause undue frustration. Below, I… Read More »

Exams can be a stressful time for both teens and parents. While study schedules and revision techniques often take centre stage, there’s one powerful, science-backed tool that is often overlooked  – Exercise. Exercise is truly the most transformative thing we can do for our brains. Research shows that regular physical activity not only strengthens the… Read More »

Getting into a good study routine early on in the academic year creates a firm foundation for GCSE and A Level exam success. So what does a “good study routine” entail? Here are our top tips for Year 10-13 students and their parents: Start early and study through the year Try to allocate some time… Read More »

Imagine it is the day of your first Physics GCSE exam. You sit in an exam hall and nervously look up at the clock, watching the seconds tick by. There is a nervous energy in the room, and it is a little bit too quiet considering how many people are crammed into such a small… Read More »

Exams can be challenging, especially when you struggle with a particular subject. The pressure to perform well can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome these challenges and succeed. Understanding the Challenge The first step in overcoming struggles with a subject is acknowledging the challenge. It’s normal to find certain… Read More »

Advice for Students Attending Justin Craig Day Courses Understanding the Purpose: Justin Craig courses are designed to complement what you’re learning at school. These sessions are not a substitute for your regular classes but an enhancement. The tutors aim to cover popular topics and clarify any misconceptions, focusing on exam skills like decoding questions and… Read More »

Exam Boards & Papers English Literature is a standard exam at GCSE level, taken with English Language, resulting in a double award for both English exams. It is fully examined with two papers (except I-GCSE or WJEC as these also include NEA Non-Examined Assessments). Most boards use an essay style question paper for both papers… Read More »

Exams are an integral part of academic life, often bringing a mix of anxiety and anticipation. Effective preparation can transform this anxiety into confidence, leading to better performance and outcomes. Understanding the Importance of Preparation Before we delve into specific strategies, it’s crucial to understand why preparation is so important. Preparation not only helps reinforce… Read More »