GCSE is the final examination in the United Kingdom for secondary school students at the age of 16. It’s a kind of ‘coming of age’ point in time that helps them make the first steps towards their careers. At the same time, those who haven’t decided on a profession yet can explore the new level of British education. University entry preparation programmes are a proven helper in these cases.
The GCSE exam works on a number scale (1-9) where 7, 8, and 9 correspond to the former ‘A’ grade. Therefore, preparation for the exam is quite a big topic for students and their parents. It might be overwhelming and confusing. But the pressure can be reduced with the right educational programs and an early start.
Many courses are targeted at university entry preparation and provide a flexible learning pace. Tuition mode can be via online, in-person or blended teaching format.
Delving Into Preparation for GCSEs: What You’re Supposed to Do
Here are a few more tips to get ready for the examination and build confidence.
- Finding a suitable learning style.
Although you may be able to study well independently, a formal programme of study under the guidance of expert tutors (some of whom may be examiners) is a must.
Being enrolled for a formal programme of study gives you a holistic approach and ensures full syllabus coverage you would otherwise miss. With the great variety of GCSE and Sixth Form colleges that we have today, Cherwell College, for instance, can give flexibility and provide personalised courses to suit each individual’s unique needs.
Their provision includes:
- Short-term courses (revision-focused, summer, pre-sessional and accelerated A-Level and (I)GCSE programmes)
- One-year fast-track courses
- Full-time programmes that last 2 years (including an A-Level program focusing on 3 subjects and GCSE courses studied over 1 or 2 academic years).
The type of program is discussed individually, as well as the intensity and modes of learning. Most frequently, programmes are delivered via a combination of one-on-one tuition, tutorial pairs and small group seminars.
2. Relying on your learning style.
Some students learn best when visualising, while others show better results when listening and discussing the material. This also affects your most effective ways to revise.
Knowing this makes you a stronger learner who can use their individual learning style to reach full potential. For visual learners, it’s great to use flashcards, posters, and even hand drawings for organising the key content before the exam or revising the main concepts.
3. Organising well.
You might not like making schedules, but it turns out effective for learning and revising. With a GCSE program, at Cherwell College, you will already have a smart schedule that won’t be a burden.
Additional study may include revising for the closest exams and filling in gaps in knowledge. At the same time, looking after your well-being is a priority, leaving enough time for a good night’s sleep, lunches, etc.
Your individual needs will also be considered when you sign up for a chosen GCSE programme.
Is Home Study an Option for Students Preparing for GCSEs?
Cherwell College is a leading Oxford international college that has maintained the best of traditional pre-university study and homeschooling. It offers a range of courses that replicate homeschooling (a tutorial method). This gives you the best of both worlds with internationally accepted qualification that allows progression to A-Levels.
