Exam preparation and information

Examinations, tests and assessments are a feature of school life - and provide opportunities for students to show their learning and find out where their strength lie and areas in which they need to work harder, or differently, to do better.

Key to performing well in examinations is to invest time and effort, every lesson, to learn. Over time, the skills and knowledge learnt can then be revised ready for that examination moment. Students who learn in class and also learn to revise what they already know are the ones who achieve the best.

Year 10 and 11 students will experience Pre-Public Examinations (PPE) prior to sitting their final exams. These will ensure they are practised in knowing what is required, equipment that is needed or banned, and how to manage their time, working under examination conditions. They will also experience receiving formal examination results - even if only as a practice - prior to their final examinations.

PPE examinations take place late during autumn term, and results are presented at the start of spring term.

Learning how to revise is important - and there are many strategies to help students remember key facts and processes ready for that examination question. Here are just a few - and there are many more to be experienced in class or found online.

Centre Assessed Grades 2021

On Thursday 25th February 2021, Ofqual released information on how grading will work for students in year 11 who would have taken examinations this summer. This includes the fact that students will not sit external examinations. The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) have since released some guidance aimed at parents which can be found below:

Guidance for Students and Parents on Summer 2021

Awarding Qualifications 2021 Guidance Letter

Awarding Qualifications 2021 MAT Letter

Tools to support learning and revision

We are often asked for ideas or tools students can use to help learn key facts - particularly for examination revision. The links below provide a few suggestions - though are not an exclusive list of the techniques students use in school

Year 11 Engage: Strategies for Learning Booklet (to follow)
Supporting learning through effective revision
Mind map guide
Mind map video
Flash cards
Memorisation guide
Multiple choice generator
Exam Revision Guides (available to purchase from the School Shop)

Some students find examination times stressful - despite learning well in class and planning effectively to give time and focus for subject revision. Students are best supported to prepare for these key times of year by getting the right amount of food, water, rest and sleep - as well as a quiet place to focus on their work. Our Wellbeing Centre also offers advice and support for students with anxiety.

Rules and regulations

When it comes to final GCSE examinations, the rules and regulations are set nationally by the Examination Boards and must be adhered to.

Copies of CVHS examination policies are available below:

Further Information for Candidates is available below: