Deputy Principal

Supporting Students Through the Challenge of Examinations

Recently, many families participated in our Parent-Teacher Interviews, providing a valuable opportunity for students, parents, and teachers to work together in supporting academic progress and personal growth. These conversations are an important part of strengthening the partnership between home and school, allowing students to reflect on their achievements, identify areas for improvement, and set meaningful goals for future academic achievement. We thank families for their ongoing engagement in their child’s learning journey.

As we move closer toward the upcoming Term 2 exams, many students are beginning to experience the natural pressures and challenges that come with assessment and examinations. While exams can feel demanding, they also provide an important opportunity for students to build confidence, resilience, and independence as learners.

This week, the examination schedule has been published and is accessible to all students and families via the Academics Tile on MyMtA. We encourage families to review the exam schedule carefully with their child to support effective preparation over the coming weeks. Establishing consistent study routines early can greatly reduce anxiety and help students feel more prepared and confident leading into the exam period.

One of the most effective ways students can prepare for examinations is by practising in the mode of assessment they will experience during the exam block. Completing practice exams, timed responses, extended written answers, and revision activities under exam-like conditions helps students build familiarity, confidence, and effective time-management skills. In addition, regular practice not only strengthens subject knowledge but also supports students in developing resilience and a greater sense of preparedness as they approach assessment challenges. 

At school, our teachers are working closely with students to support both their academic preparation and wellbeing. This includes helping students develop effective study habits, revision strategies, organisational skills, and confidence in approaching examinations. I thank the many teachers involved in our Personal Best program across the Middle Years, for their facilitation of study skills strategies with our Year 7 - 9 cohorts.  I also acknowledge the sessions delivered earlier in the year by Mr Pasang Tenzing and Ms Leah Heath to our Year 10 - 12 students.  Together, we are working to complement the expert-work of our classroom teachers: developing in our students the ability to know the content and skills by explicitly teaching the very important skill of knowing how to study. 

Parents and caregivers also play a significant role in helping students navigate the upcoming exam period successfully. Simple actions such as maintaining routines, encouraging balanced study habits, celebrating effort, and providing reassurance can have a powerful impact on a young person’s confidence and resilience. Open conversations about managing stress, maintaining perspective, and recognising progress are equally important.  It also helps to support your student to manage distractions:  music (with lyrics) and mobile phones are proven study-detractors!

Together, we look forward to supporting our students through a successful exam period.

Warm regards,

Ms Simone Roche

Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning