Deputy Principal

Working Together

Blink and we are in Week Four. This is the perfect time to pause, reset, and build the habits that will carry students confidently into the assessment period. With assignments, tests and practical tasks just around the corner, the daily routines students establish now can make all the difference.

Check Daymap for your student’s Assessment Calendar.  Plan early and support students with chunking tasks to manage due dates. 

Below are some practical strategies to help our young people prepare effectively – and sustainably.

Start Early, Start Small

Assessment success rarely comes from last-minute cramming. Instead, it grows from small, consistent actions:

• Review class notes each week – even 10–15 minutes per subject helps consolidate learning.
• Break tasks into chunks – rather than “do the assignment,” aim to complete one section at a time.
• Use a planner or calendar to map out due dates and work backwards.

Week Four is the ideal time to draft a simple study schedule before competing deadlines pile up.

Create a Study Routine

Quality habits thrive on routine. Encourage students to:

• Study at the same time each day where possible.
• Choose a quiet, organised workspace.
• Keep phones in another room during focused study blocks.
• Use the “45–10” method: 45 minutes of focused work, followed by a 10-minute break.

Consistency reduces stress and improves retention.

Ask for Help Early

One of the strongest habits high-achieving students share is help-seeking behaviour. If something isn’t clear:

• Speak with your classroom teacher.
• Attend homework club or subject tutorials.
• Form a small study group with classmates.

Seeking support early prevents small misunderstandings from becoming major obstacles.

Practise Active Learning

Reading notes repeatedly is less effective than actively engaging with material. Students can:

• Summarise key ideas in their own words.
• Create flashcards for terminology.
• Teach a concept to someone else.
• Complete practice questions under timed conditions.

Active learning builds deeper understanding and confidence.

Prioritise Wellbeing

Healthy habits support academic performance. As assessments approach, it’s important to maintain:

• Regular sleep (8–10 hours for teenagers).
• Balanced nutrition and hydration.
• Physical activity, even a short walk.
• Time for hobbies, family and relaxation.

A balanced routine leads to clearer thinking and better resilience during busy weeks.

A Message for Families

Families play a vital role during assessment periods. You can help by:

• Encouraging a regular homework routine.
• Providing a quiet space for study.
• Asking specific questions such as, “What’s your plan for your English task?” rather than “Do you have homework?”
• Celebrating effort and persistence, not just results.

Looking Ahead

Assessment periods are not just about grades – they are opportunities for students to develop organisation, perseverance and independence. By building strong habits now in Week Four, our students will be well positioned to approach the coming weeks with confidence and capability.

Let’s work together to make this term a focused, balanced and successful one.

OPPORTUNITY

Live Parent Webinar: How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time 

Wednesday 25th February 6:30-7:30pm (AEDT)