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 – April to June
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. Wellbeing Advisers are also working with GLS on each site to provide wellbeing and mental health support.
Your Learning Support team in college 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 30th April to 19th June (not during half-term).
Banbury and Bicester College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions with Stacie Cousart in the Learning Resources Centre every:
- Monday, 11:30am–12:30pm
- Tuesday, 9–11am
Computer reader / exam facilitation support
- Tuesday, 3–4pm
City of Oxford College and University Centre
Drop in Revision and Study Skills sessions with study mentors are held in the Learning Centre in the Library every:
- Monday, 10.15–11.15am and 11.15am–12.15pm
- Tuesday, 10.30–11.30am
- Wednesday, 3–4pm
Using the Computer Reader practice workshops
Book a practice session here: Computer Reader Practice sessions
Individual or small group sessions may be available on request and if there is availability, please contact assessment-ox@activatelearning.ac.uk .
Using your exam arrangements effectively workshops – request a session by emailing assessment-ox@activatelearning.ac.uk.
The Leys College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions with a study mentor or specialist teacher in the Student Support area every:
- Wednesday, 10:10–11:10am (Nadia)
- Thursday, 12:30–1:30pm (Sandra)
Using the Computer Reader/ Reading pen session with Sandra Ortiz Martinez in TG03A (Telford building):
- Tuesday, 2.30–3.30pm
- Friday, 12.30–1.30 pm
OR contact Sandra and let her know a convenient date/time and she will be happy to help. Send an email to Sandra.OrtizMartinez@activatelearning.ac.uk.
Bracknell and Wokingham College
Drop-in sessions take place in the Library:
Revision/exam technique (including managing exam stress) drop-ins:
- Monday, 9–10am
- Thursday, 4–4.45pm
- Friday, 3–4pm
GCSE English help:
- Tuesday, 4–5pm
- Wednesday, 8.30–9.30am
- Thursday, 11am–12pm
- Friday, 3–4pm
GCSE maths:
- Monday, 1.30–2.30pm
- Wednesday, 4–5pm
- Friday, 10.30–11.30am and 3–4pm
If these session times do not work or you need study skills/ assignment-based support, referrals can be made via our Study Mentor referral form using the QR code (these are on posters around the college).
Students wanting support in How to use exam access arrangements should email either Anne Walters or Isa Watson (specialist teacher-assessors) and they will arrange either an in-person session or support session on Teams at a time to suit.
Support in using a reading pen is done at a student’s specialist assessment and either in-class with study mentors or LSAs or faculty tutors.
Reading College and University Centre
Drop-in revision sessions to offer support in preparing for the GCSE maths and English exams with a study mentor. Visit the Learning Hub in the Library:
Drop-in revision sessions to offer support in preparing for the GCSE maths and English exams with a study mentor.
Visit the Learning Hub in the Library:
- Wednesday, 9–11am
- Thursday, 13.30–16.30pm
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
Farnham College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in The Skills Centre:
- English GCSE – Wednesday, 4–5pm
- Maths GCSE – Thursday, 4–5pm
How to use exam access arrangements effectively sessions with Rosemary Ward:
- Friday, 10am–12pm in Morley Court, 311
Guildford College
Drop-in revision and skills sessions in G7:
- Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 3–4:30pm
How to use exam access arrangements effectively sessions with Melanie Walton in G10:
- Monday, 2–4pm
- Thursday, 9.30–10.30am
Merrist Wood College and University Centre
Drop-in sessions: Monday – Thursday, 12:15–1:15pm
- Tuesday is dedicated to English Revision.
- Wednesday is dedicated to Maths Revision.
If other sessions are required to know how to use your exam access arrangements effectively, please contact Charlotte Klein or Rosemary Ward. Use the email assessment-mw@activatelearning.ac.uk.
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 stress 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!
