At St Catherine’s we are acutely aware of developing in every student the resilience to manage themselves, their learning, and study.  

We all know learning and wellbeing are closely linked. Students with positive wellbeing are more engaged and successful learners. Our teachers spend time modelling, scaffolding, and coaching students on how to effectively revise and prepare for their summative assessments and examinations.  

The end of the year brings with it final examinations where the right mindset becomes closely aligned with performance. This term our weekly Academic Advisory Program has focused on having a healthy mindset and effective study strategies for examinations.  

Years 9 to 11 examinations commence today. For some students, this brings a level of anxiety and stress. It is important to understand that stress is a normal part of life. Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller explains “stress might feel unpleasant. But realising that it is your body’s way of revving you up and helping you to perform at your best, will help you to keep these feelings in perspective.” Fuller makes a valid point; students need to get stressed as this is a normal and natural feeling.  

Getting stressed allows students to learn how to effectively manage this emotion and step into strategies to assist with managing their stress around examinations. 

Strategies for a Healthier Study Mindset: Managing Emotions (Academic Advisory) 

Performing well in an examination means students need to focus on the question or topic area in front of them. A key reminder for all students is “What do I need to do now?” Keeping the revision and study in perspective is key to mitigating any feelings of stress. 

Fuller asks us all to remember the 5Ps that are captured in an old saying: ‘Perfect Preparation Predicts Powerful Performance’. Therefore, what are some key preparation strategies for examinations?  

The Academic Advisory Program teaches students how to prepare for their examinations. I encourage all parents to access this Program on mystcatherines to support their daughters.  

Strategies for Revision: Retrieval Practice (Academic Advisory)  

Balance and structure are so important during the examinations. We welcome students working at School in the Nicholas Library throughout the examination period. This creates a structure for their day and access to their teachers for support and consultation.  

Supporting students to perform at their best requires a multifaceted approach, integrating effective study techniques, mental wellbeing strategies, and supportive environments. Parents play a pivotal role in this process by providing structure and emotional support at home.  

As always, we aim to work in partnership to support every student in their examination preparation and revision.