Senior School Update

Preparing for VCE Examinations: Making the September holidays count 

As we approach the September holidays, it is important that all VCE students understand that this time is not simply a break from school, it is a valuable opportunity to consolidate learning, revise key content and prepare for the final examination period. 

While we encourage students to take time to rest and recharge, families are reminded that extended holidays during this period are strongly discouraged. The final weeks of Term 3 and the September holidays are a critical part of students’ preparation, and engaging with the planned revision program will provide students with the best opportunity to achieve their potential. 

Week 1: Connect Revision Lectures 

During the first week of the holidays, BHHS will be hosting a series of revision lectures delivered by Connect Education. These sessions are designed to help students revisit key knowledge from across the year, strengthen their understanding of the study design and practise applying their knowledge to examination-style questions. 

Students will work through common exam techniques, explore how to structure high-quality responses and receive practical advice on how to approach their final examinations. 

The cost of these sessions is $30 per student. Families are asked to provide consent and payment through Compass by 7 September. 

Please note that additional revision lectures will also be scheduled during Week 1 of Term 4 to continue supporting students in the lead-up to examinations. 

Week 2: Practice Examinations 

During the second week of the holidays, students will complete practice examinations for their subjects. These exams provide an important opportunity for students to experience examination conditions, practise managing their time and identify areas for further improvement. 

All practice examinations will be marked by teachers and returned to students before classes conclude in Week 2 of Term 4. Students are encouraged to use this feedback carefully by identifying areas for improvement, revisiting challenging concepts and seeking support from their teachers. 

Additional Exam Preparation Resources 

To further support student preparation, each VCE student will receive three practice examination papers per subject, printed and provided free of charge by the school. 

These resources allow students to continue developing confidence and exam technique through regular practice. 

Students are encouraged to use these papers strategically by: 

• Completing practice exams under timed conditions 

• Using marking guides to self-assess their responses 

• Identifying recurring mistakes or gaps in knowledge 

• Bringing questions to their teachers for clarification 

• Creating a personalised revision plan based on feedback 

Practical Tips for Students Over the Holidays 

Successful exam preparation is about consistency rather than last-minute cramming.

Students are encouraged to: 

• Develop a realistic study timetable that balances revision, rest and wellbeing 

• Complete regular blocks of focused study rather than long, unproductive sessions 

• Revise actively by completing practice questions, creating summaries and explaining concepts aloud 

• Avoid simply rereading notes - examination success comes from applying knowledge 

   

The September holidays represent a significant opportunity for students to take ownership of their learning and enter Term 4 feeling prepared and confident.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to ensure every student is well prepared for their final assessments.