The Hamilton and Alexandra College Newsletter

Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning

 - Mrs Susan Bradbeer

Step Up, Pose Up

 

This week our students are preparing for our End of Year Examinations.

 

This is a really important time for our students to showcase their learning.

 

This period is about developing skills of recall, applying new knowledge, problem solving and communicating ideas and big concepts in a range of mediums. Students learn to work under pressure, to reset and reflect. It is a time to celebrate what they know and the progress that they have made throughout the year. But it is also a time of anxiety and stress for some of our students.

 

Encourage your child to be organised. Be open and discuss their concerns with them. Help them to break down all the tasks they need to prepare for each exam.

 

All our College Families have been sent the exam timetable and guidelines. I urge you to reread these guidelines. Students can find confidence going into the exam period if they can keep the following front of mind:

  1. Have all the suitable materials for the exam – pens, a clear water bottle, dictionary.
  2. Arrive at the exam venue early.
  3. Read the exam instructions carefully.
  4. Use reading time effectively to work through the paper and start to think about the questions.
  5. Manage the exam time – wear a watch to the exam and track your progress.

One of my favourite techniques for exam preparation is to teach students the power pose. The power pose is about building confidence and assertiveness by changing the way we use our body.

 

For the exam period, students could experiment with a strong power pose to build presence and regulate stress. It is a commitment to change your thinking as you walk into the exam room. For more information, check out Amy Cuddy’s video here: https://youtu.be/r7dWsJ-mEyI

 

At the start of Week 9, students will have exam feedback sessions with their teachers, and then the whole school will move into Step Up. Step Up is an introduction to classes for 2024. It is a chance for students to meet their teacher and get a sense of the expectations for each course.

 

If you have any questions about the teaching and learning events in the coming weeks, don't hesitate to get in touch with me.