As we approach the end of the year, it’s an exciting and pivotal time for our Year 10 students. They’re preparing for their Semester 2 exams, gearing up for Headstart, and looking forward to beginning their journeys as senior students. This period sets the foundation for a successful transition into Year 11 and beyond. Here are some strategies to help your child make the most of their study time for their exams and prepare themselves for VCE.

1. Set Up a Structured Study Routine

During our Pastoral Lesson last week, we explored how to create a positive and conducive environment where students are able to maximise their study. Creating a balanced study schedule can make a huge difference in managing their time and reducing stress. Breaking study sessions into manageable blocks, ideally 25 to 30 minutes with short breaks in between. Organise their sessions based on subjects, focusing on areas they find most challenging. By spacing out revision, they’re more likely to retain information and feel prepared. Another helpful strategy is to remove distractions from their spaces, the biggest of these being their phones and devices!

2. Use Active Study Techniques

Rather than passively reading notes, engage with the content actively:

• Summarise notes in their own words
• Teach someone else – explaining concepts aloud to friends or family can reinforce their understanding (you may learn something new too!) and
• Practice exams and past papers are excellent for familiarising themselves with question types and managing time.

3. Mind Mapping and Flashcards

For subjects with lots of content, try using mind maps to connect ideas visually. Flashcards, particularly for key terms and definitions, are also great for subjects like English, Science and Humanities.  Apps like Quizlet or Anki are excellent tools for creating digital flashcards, making study more interactive and efficient.

4. Look After Your Wellbeing

Exams can feel stressful, but maintaining your health is just as important as academic preparation. Make sure to get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and take regular breaks for physical activity. Activities like walking or short workouts are beneficial for clearing your mind and boosting concentration.

5. Focus on Skill-Building for VCE or VCE VM

Headstart is the perfect opportunity to become familiar with VCE or VCE VM study design expectations for each of their subjects. These are easily accessible on a Google search typing in the subject, for example ‘VCAA English Language Study Design’. Try to build these habits:

• Stay Organised: Begin using a planner or digital calendar to track assignments and key dates
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification from teachers; building rapport and seeking feedback early on will benefit your child later and
• Develop Independence: Begin setting their own study goals and self-assess to understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

6. Reflect on Their Goals

As your child prepares for Headstart, take some time to reflect on their academic goals for VCE. This is a chance to think about the subjects they’re passionate about and to build the resilience needed for their senior years.

With these tips, they’re well on their way to a confident finish to Year 10 and a smooth transition to Year 11. 

Remember, their teachers and peers are here to support them every step of the way. Stay focused, take care of yourselves, and approach each new challenge with a positive mindset.

Best of luck with your child’s exams, and here’s to a rewarding Headstart and successful senior years ahead!

Jessica Baddeley

Level Leader: Year 10