As we approach the upcoming exam period, we understand that this can be a challenging time.
To ensure your success, we must reiterate the importance of attendance at college and utilising additional revision sessions. Please make use of the opportunities available to you and attend all your timetabled lessons in the run up to your exams.
We want to reassure you that your wellbeing is a top priority. We’re here to provide you with the support and resources needed to help you manage exam stress and make the most of your revision opportunities.
We have dedicated pages with further information on timetables, advice and revision resources for those of you sitting the following exams:
Revision opportunities at college
Your academic team is ready to assist you with additional revision sessions, study skills, time management, and exam preparation strategies. Feel free to schedule a 1:1 session if you need personalised assistance.
In-person specialist tutor revision sessions and study skills sessions will be available at all campuses from April 16 to June 30:
Banbury and Bicester College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions with Stacie Cousart in the Learning Resources Centre on:
- Monday at 11:30am–12:30pm
- Wednesday at 1:45–2:45pm
Bracknell and Wokingham College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in the LRC:
- Thursday 2:30–3:30pm (Maths GCSE)
- Friday 9:30–11:00am (English GCSE)
How to use exam access arrangements effectively sessions on:
- Monday 9:15–10:30am with specialist tutor Anne Walters in Room 502
- Tuesday 9:30–10:30am with specialist tutor Isa Watson in Room 508
How to use a Reading Pen session in Room 508 on:
- Monday 18 March – 3–4pm with Anne Walters
- Tuesday 19 March – 1:30–2:30pm with Isa Watson
City of Oxford College City Centre Campus
Drop-in revision and skills sessions with Laura Green, Laura Partridge and Sam Chapman-Jones in the Learning Support Centre on:
- Monday at 12pm
- Wednesday at 3pm
City of Oxford College Technology Campus
Drop-in revision and skills sessions with Alison Birkett in the Student Support area on:
- Tuesdays at 12:30–1:30pm
- Thursdays at 12:30–1:30pm
Farnham College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in The Skills Centre:
- Mondays – 1– 2:30pm
- Tuesdays – 2:45–4:15pm
- Wednesdays – 9– 10:30am
- Thursdays – 2:45–4:15pm
- Fridays – 10:30am–12:15pm
Guildford College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in G7 on:
Monday
- 1–2pm and 4–5pm – GCSE maths and science revision sessions with Rachel
- 3:30–4:30pm – GCSE maths revision sessions with Nick
Tuesday
- 12:30–1pm – Mindful breathing sessions with Laura
- 1.30–2.30 pm and 4-5 pm with Rachel
Wednesday
- 2:30–3:30pm with Jade
- 3pm with Rachel
Thursday
- 11am–12pm GCSE English revision, Sam
- 9:15-10:15 with Lorena and Dominique (two groups)
How to use exam access arrangements effectively session with Melanie Walton in G10 on:
- Monday – 10am–12pm
- Wednesday – 2–4pm
Reading College
Drop-in revision and exam preparation sessions in the LRC:
- Wednesday 3–4pm with Kaitlin Young
- Thursday 3–4pm with Ben Kelly
- Friday 3–4pm with Yasmin Ward and Elias Murray
How to use exam access arrangements effectively session with specialist tutors Clare Lowerson and Jane Doyle in A5/8:
- Tuesday 12:30–1:30pm
- Thursday 12:30-1:30pm
Merrist Wood College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in the Skills Centre (LRC):
- Monday – 11:15am–12:15pm and 4–5pm
- Tuesday – 4–5pm
- Thursday – 4–5pm
- Friday – 2–3pm
How to use exam access arrangements effectively with specialist tutor Charlotte Klein on:
- Monday at 10am – booked session in room D3
- Tuesday at 10am – drop-in session in room D4
- Thursday at 10am – drop-in session in room D3
In addition to these revision and skills sessions, you could also collaborate with your peers by forming study groups. By discussing topics with others can provide different perspectives and deepen your understanding of the material.
Apprentices
While apprentices may not be sitting GCSE exams, these sessions and support services may still be useful while undertaking your qualification.
Please speak with your Performance Coaches for further information.
Access to resources:
Take advantage of the various resources available to you, such as textbooks, online materials, and past exam papers. Our Learning Environments and online databases are excellent sources to enhance your study materials.
Please visit the following ALO webpage for Learning Environment and TEL space opening times during term-time and holidays.
You also have access to Century to boost your ability and confidence for exams.
Seeking help:
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers if you have questions or need clarification on any topics. They are here to help you succeed.
If you’re concerned with costs relating to attending your exams, please contact our Student Finance team via Advice and Admissions or Reception as soon as possible as they may be able to support you via bursary funds if you are eligible.
Ahead of your exam
Exam room location:
Please familiarise yourself with the location of your exam room in advance of the exam morning.
If you’re unsure of where the room is, please ask a member of staff in advance to avoid any additional stress on the day.
Equipment:
Make sure you have the correct equipment for all exams, be sure to bring a few black pens to each.
For maths exams, please ensure you have a complete Geometry set including a protractor, compass, pencil, eraser and ruler. Ensure to also bring your scientific calculator for Maths Paper 2.
Free Breakfast Club at college:
Do take advantage of the Breakfast Club at college and make sure to grab some toast, cereal, or a hot drink before you sit your exam. This is free and open to all from 8:30–9:15am.
Managing exam stress
ALO offers webpages on exam stress and stess and anxiety.
We also have a dedicated parents’ guide to managing exam stress.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques:
You’ll want to make sure you’re looking after your wellbeing during exam season.
Consider incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Simple activities like deep breathing, meditation, or short walks can have a positive impact on reducing stress levels.
Time management:
We have plenty of top tips for exam success. You’ll want to create a realistic study schedule that allows for breaks. Effective time management can help you stay focused, maintain a healthy balance, and avoid last-minute cramming.
Consider downloading a daily revision planner and weekly revision planner to help you organise your revision sessions.
Healthy lifestyle:
Ensure you are taking care of your physical health by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated. A well-nourished body and mind are better equipped to handle stress.
Support services
Student Support and counselling services:
If you find yourself feeling emotionally overwhelmed, our Student Support team and counselling service are available to provide emotional support and coping strategies. You can find Student Support contact details for each college via ALO or ask at Reception, and they will point you in the right direction.
Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources and people available to support you. Take breaks when needed, stay positive, and believe in your abilities. You’ve got this!
Best of luck with your exams!
Warm regards,
Cheri Ashby on behalf of the Education Leadership Team