Wellbeing Way

Exam preparedness, organisation and time management

As we move into a particularly busy time of Term 2, with multiple assessment deadlines and exam preparation, students and parents alike are strongly encouraged to regularly use our MyMtA Academics tile to ensure a smooth assessment period. This is where the assessment calendars and exam timetables can be found. Additionally, if students need reminders of the regularly taught High Impact Learning Strategies, the document that contains these is housed here. The name of the document is Tips on Becoming More Organised and Better at Study. Within this document, students will find an abridged version of how to construct a study plan and revision strategies that are tried, tested and evidence-based, and suitable for a range of subjects, for example, how to create a study plan, or using the Pomodoro study technique. 

When students consistently use effective time-management strategies and organisational techniques, they are less likely to feel overwhelmed. This is particularly important during busy periods, when competing deadlines, assessments and extracurricular commitments can cause pressure to build. Strong organisational skills enable students to stay on top of their responsibilities, manage their workload efficiently and approach challenges with greater confidence. By developing these habits, students are better equipped to maintain their wellbeing while achieving their academic goals.

Research and practical advice from Australian clinical psychologist and educator Dr Judith Locke highlight the importance of helping students develop independence and responsibility for their own learning. While parents naturally want to support their children during stressful periods, Locke encourages parents to avoid taking over tasks that students are capable of managing themselves. Instead, parents can play an important role as coaches who guide and encourage students to develop the skills they need to succeed.

One of the most valuable habits students can develop is the ability to plan ahead. Encourage your child to review assessment calendars, examination schedules and upcoming commitments at the beginning of each week. Working backwards from due dates can help students break larger tasks into manageable chunks and avoid the stress of last-minute completion.

Rather than creating a schedule for your child, consider asking questions such as:

• What assessments are due this week?
• Which task will take the longest to complete?
• What is your plan for preparing for upcoming exams?
• How will you balance your study with other commitments?

These conversations help students take ownership of their workload and develop important organisational skills.

Parents can also rest assured that the network of care at the College wraps around their child when needed. Within the wellbeing space at the College, a wide range of supports are available to students, both through personal connections and online resources, particularly during periods when academic and personal pressures may increase. 

We strongly encourage students to seek support from their network of trusted adults, including classroom teachers, Homeroom Mentor Teachers (as the first points of contact), Heads of House and other staff members who are committed to their wellbeing and success. In addition, our dedicated Learning Enhancement and Support team and College counsellors are available to work alongside students, parents and carers, providing guidance, encouragement and practical support when it is needed most. 

By working in partnership, we can ensure that every student feels supported, connected and equipped to navigate challenges with confidence, especially during busy assessment periods.

References

Locke, J. (2024). Essential changes as they start high school. Medium. Available at: Essential changes as they start high school. This article discusses the importance of increasing responsibility, academic independence, self-management and organisation as students transition to secondary school.