Before you head back to school in September, it is a good idea to acclimatise yourself back into learning by taking the necessary steps in preparing to attend lessons and learn again. Here are a few things we recommend you do at the start of term!

1. Familiarise yourself with the course

Our first advice would be to get familiar with your courses. Look at what will be covered over the year, and look at your exam board. You can then do things like look at the specification and the types of exams that you will sit. Doing this will introduce you to the nature of the course and give you a general idea of what you will be studying.

2. Read around your areas of interest

As soon as you can, start reading around the areas that interest you. Do not feel pressured to become a regular reader of detailed science journals, but following articles and watching a few Youtube videos are ways to introduce yourself to the content. It can also give you an idea of how the things you learn fit into society and how what you are learning applies to everyday life, which could be crucial in your courses depending on which you take.

3. Start in advance and think about revision early

Start studying early and do not leave things for later. If you can, try and keep on top of your study, readings and assignments by doing them as soon as you get them. The school year will get more intense as the semester kicks in, so it is better to get things out of the way. Continuous revision is necessary for getting the top grades, so as you go through the year learning new things, make sure you go back regularly to make sure you fully understand it.

4. Remember your goal

Studying difficult subjects for two years is bound to make you lose your motivation a couple of times. To avoid this, focus on your main reason for studying - is it to get onto a particular university course, maybe it’s for that feeling of accomplishment on results day? Write or print out something to remind you of your goal and place it near where you study for an extra boost when you need it. Objects like a mug from your dream university or a picture of your ideal exam results can be the perfect things to get you back on track when you’re feeling tired and unmotivated.