Most barriers to learning only exist inside our heads If a student knows where they are going and sets goals, they are more likely to succeed Your attitude to learning is the strongest influence on how successful a learner your child becomes The influence of home life is 5 times greater than the influence of school on children’s learning Children spend less than 15% of their waking hours at school The more schools and parents work together, the more likely that the children will embrace their education

5 Steps to GCSE Success Be prepared! Know how you work best Know about the assessments Have targets – and aim high! Work together

Step 1: Get a good start Copy of timetable at home Be aware of when coursework or non- examination assessment is due or being done in school Regular checks of the planner Quiet place to work Help with time management Resources for studying Show an interest – without being intrusive! Talk about aspirations Set the example!

Step 2: How does your child learn best? We all learn in different ways There are 3 main types of learner Visual (35%) Kinaesthetic (40%) Auditory (25%) We learn (in a multi-sensory way): 10% of what we read 20% of what we hear 30% of what we see 50% of what we hear and see 70% of what we say 90% of what we read, hear, see, say and do

Step 3: Know the types of assessment Find out proportion of coursework/NEA practical assessments and written exams Note deadlines on the calendar Much coursework will involve additional work at home Most will involve the use of ICT either for research, presentation or analysis (backup- memory sticks-printouts and backup again!) Revision needs to be organised, systematic and multi-sensory Fail to prepare is to prepare to fail!

Step 4: Set Targets Challenging (pressure not stress!) Achievable Target grades will be issued in November and revised on regular basis, these are based on individual data Teachers share what is needed to attain a particular grade/level and how to improve for the future through clear guidelines, self/peer assessment and regular feedback Short term targets with success and breaks built in

Step 5: Working together We all want the same thing – happy and successful young people. Come along to all of our information evenings – two consultation evenings per year and pathways. We offer parent workshops during the year on different topics. Chat about reports, attitude to learning and current and projected grades. Keep us informed if your child is struggling in any way – planner, email or phone call – if we know about a problem we can tackle it. Celebrate successes with us too.

Whether you think you can or you can’t you’re right!