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The Year 11 Survival Guide: 6 Top Tips for Year 11 Students
September 13, 2024
Year 11 is a big deal. It’s an exciting year full of changes and challenges, decisions and discoveries. However, perhaps most importantly, it’s the year that marks the beginning of a new chapter, and where the plans you make will help shape your future!
While Year 11 can feel overwhelming at times, it’s important to remember that with the right approach, you can make this year a success. And, whether it’s sitting exams, staying on top of coursework, or starting to think about what’s next, Middlesbrough College is here to support you every step of the way.
No matter if you’ve visited us before or are still thinking about your options, read on for our Year 11 Guide! Here, we share our 6 top tips for Year 11 students to help you make the most of this exciting year in your studies. But first, let’s start with an introduction to our Schools Team!
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Meet the Middlesbrough Schools Team
Meet the Schools Team: Lucy, Ellie, Coby, Meg, and Jen!
The Schools Team are here to support you throughout Year 11 and provide you with information on the options available to you after you finish school. They are always out and about visiting schools at lunch times or delivering presentations during assemblies, so don’t be afraid to say hi if you see them!
If your school is one of the few schools that the Schools Team doesn’t visit, don’t worry. You can book a 1:1 tour with the Schools Team to explore our excellent facilities, meet our course tutors, and ask any questions about College you might have!
From left to right: Lucy, Ellie, Coby, Meg, and Jen.
6 Top Tips for Year 11 Students
From organisation skills to when to start thinking about College, here’s our 6 top tips for Year 11 Students!
Get organised from day one
Year 11 can be demanding, with exams, coursework deadlines, and everything in between. However, the key to surviving Year 11 without feeling overwhelmed is to get organised early.
To do this, you can create a study timetable and plan out your time in advance, making sure to stick to your plan.
It’s also important to avoid procrastination. Putting things off may seem tempting in the moment, but small, consistent efforts throughout the year will lead to better results!
Balance your time and take regular study breaks
It’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, which is why one of the best skills you can develop in Year 11 is time management.
Use your time productively by breaking tasks into small, manageable chunks and ensuring a healthy school and personal life balance.
And remember, while schoolwork is essential, giving yourself time to relax and recharge is just as important!
Participate in class discussions
If you’re struggling with a subject, ask your teacher for help!
Your lessons are where you’ll absorb most of the information you’ll need, so it’s important to make the most of it. Actively participate in class by answering questions, joining discussions, and engaging with both your teachers and classmates.
It’s also a good idea to take good notes and write down key points during lessons.
Start revising early
It’s no secret that GCSE exams require a lot of preparation, and the earlier you start revising, the less stressful your final months will be.
Create a revision timetable that spreads your study sessions throughout the year, focusing on areas where you feel less confident.
You can also use a variety of revision techniques to keep studying interesting, such as flashcards, mind maps, and practice papers!
Start exploring your post-16 options early!
It’s never too soon to start thinking about your options after Year 11.
Whether you’re considering studying A Levels, taking up an apprenticeship, or enrolling on a vocational or T Level course, it’s important to begin researching your next steps early.
Start by doing your research into different qualifications to find the route that best aligns with your career goals and interests. Whether you’re drawn to academic study, hands-on learning, or something in between, there’s a pathway to suit you!
It’s also helpful to talk to your teachers, career advisors, friends, and family, as they can offer valuable insight into what each option entails and guide you in choosing the right path.
Look after yourself
Your studies are important, but your mental and physical health are more important.
Staying active is a great way to relieve stress and improve concentration during Year 11; even a short walk can help clear your mind! Make sure to also eat well and get enough sleep, as both are crucial for your well-being.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone, whether it’s a friend, family member, or teacher. There are many resources available for students who may be feeling the pressure!
Start your future with Middlesbrough College
Your final year of secondary school isn’t just about GCSEs – it’s about preparing for what comes next. And, with so many options available, now is the perfect time to start exploring your options.
At Middlesbrough College, we provide a wide range of excellent pathways, including A Levels, T Levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships. So, no matter which industry you’re interested in or what your dream career is, there’s an option to suit you!
Ready to start thinking about your future? Come along to one of our upcoming Open Events to get a taste of what we offer! Whether you’re interested in a career in Engineering, want to explore A Levels, or have a question about a specific course or apprenticeships, come along to find out more!
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