GCSE revision tips for parents

GCSEs are still very important, and for many children they will form the basis on which they will build their career paths. It’s essential not to overload or unduly stress children, but at the same time healthy revision techniques combined with a clear understanding of the importance of the exam can both help contribute to a student achieving the best grades they can. With that in mind, how can you help ensure a child can healthily and productively revise for GCSEs? 

1. Invest in a private tutor

It might sound ridiculous at first, but remember that thanks to technology private tutoring is no longer expensive or exclusionary. In fact it’s now more affordable than ever. Private tutoring can allow a student that level of one to one support with a tutor specifically qualified to help engage and develop their understanding. This can apply to a single topic, or they can have a tutor coach them through the entirety of their GCSE revision. 

Private tutoring is convenient and works within the confines of the student’s schedule, as well as yours. GoStudent online maths classes for example can offer excellent support without the cost and complexity private tutoring used to engender.

2. A consistent and varied schedule

The best exam prep is never done at the last minute. Of course you don’t want to start revising too early, however as the GCSEs begin to approach a few months out, it’s a good idea to start the ball rolling with exam prep. Remember that bitesize revision chunks are much more effective than one big marathon – an hour or two a day will be more beneficial than 6 to 8 hours in one go. It should begin roughly three months or so from the exam dates.

It’s also important to remember that you should encourage variety in the revision process. Reading the same notes over and over again doesn’t work for many students. Instead get involved with your child and help them with games, quizzes, and different locations to revise in. The more you’re involved, the more inclined they should be to engage. 

3. Keep mental health a priority

GCSEs are often the first major period of stress a student will go through in their academic career, so it’s important to ensure that you don’t overload the child with worry. They need to understand that these exams are important and that they should do their very best, but it’s important they don’t feel that “everything” hinges on a certain result. A blasé attitude will not get a child anywhere, but stressing them to the point of physical illness won’t either. 

Instead seek to encourage honest and open communication. If your child is not feeling well or is stressed, do not force them to revise – instead keep count of that time and recoup it elsewhere. Above all else ensure your child knows you love them and that you will be there to support them through every stage of the process. That is the true key to success.