Deputy Headmaster's Message - Mock Exam Week

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we reach the end of the IGCSE and A-Level Mock Exam Week, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the value these exams hold in our students' academic journey. The Mock exams were not just practise runs; they played a crucial role in preparing our students for the real, external exams in May/June 2024. They offered a realistic glimpse into the exam environment, helping students refine their time management and stress-coping strategies, and importantly, provided a platform for them to identify both their strengths and areas needing improvement.

The period following the mock exams is just as critical. Next week, the Y11 specialist teachers will be engaged in providing detailed feedback, an invaluable part of the process. This personalised analysis is vital for our students, guiding them in fine-tuning their study and revision strategies. It's a transformative time where potential weaknesses are turned into strengths, and academic skills are honed. Moreover, the resilience and discipline developed during the mock exams are key attributes that extend beyond academic success, equipping our students for future challenges.

It is true to say that the results of the Mocks exams are not as important as the lessons learned. By acting on the feedback and learning from the experience, our students will be in a much stronger place by the time the summer exams come around.

Finally, I would like to thank the teachers for guiding the students to this week and preparing the exams that were sat. I would also like to thank Ms Johnston and Miss Nice, our Exams Officer, for managing the exam week experience for the students.

Thank you for reading and have a safe and restful weekend,

Simon Fowler

Deputy Headmaster