Supporting Young People Through GCSE Revision.
GCSE exams can be a stressful time for any young person, but for those in foster care, the pressure can feel even more intense. As a foster carer, you’re not just offering a safe and stable home—you’re also providing the emotional encouragement, structure, and belief they need to succeed.
Our Education Specialist has some practical ways you can support the young person in your care as they prepare for their GCSEs. From creating a calm study environment and establishing helpful routines, to managing stress and boosting their confidence, your support can make all the difference. Whether it’s their first big set of exams or a second attempt, your role is key in helping them feel prepared and empowered.
The Benefits of Revision
- Improves Memory: Regular revision helps transfer information from short-term to long-term memory, making it easier to recall during exams.
- Identifies Gaps: It allows you to spot areas where your understanding is weaker, so you can focus on improving those parts.
- Boosts Confidence: Familiarity with the material reduces anxiety and boosts your confidence, as you feel more prepared for the exams.
- Enhances Understanding: Revisiting topics multiple times helps deepen your understanding and allows you to make connections between different concepts.
- Practice Application: Revision often involves practicing past papers and questions, which helps you apply your knowledge in exam conditions.
- Reduces Stress: A well-planned revision schedule can reduce last-minute cramming and stress, leading to a more balanced and healthy approach to studying.
FREE ONLINE REVISION RESOURCES
BBC Bitesize – interactive resources for most GCSE subjects. They also provide study skills support and ways to manage wellbeing during exams: https: BBC Bitesize Study Support
Study Rocket have a range of revision lessons for GCSE and A-Level subjects.
Revisely have videos, past paper questions and solutions for several GCSE subjects.
So when is the ideal time to start revising?
Revising for your GCSEs will very much depend on your personal study habits and schedule. However, a common recommendation is to begin focused revision around six months before the exams.
Starting to revise early allows you to:
- Cover all the content thoroughly.
- Identify and fill gaps in your knowledge.
- Use spaced repetition for better recall.
- Maintain a healthy balance between revision and other activities
