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Managing the workload

One of the greatest challenges all A Level students face is that of managing their workload.

To support our students in managing this challenge, we equip them with a variety of different tools including –

  • A Sixth Form planner
  • Dedicated study areas
  • Timetabled study periods
  • Specific guidance and skills in tutor time
  • Online tools including Show My Homework and Teams
  • Guidance booklets such as the VESPA booklet (found in the Year 12 transition work materials)

We continue to find that part time jobs, Sixth Form social life and hobbies/enrichment can have a negative impact on the performance of  those students who do not manage their time carefully. It is impossible to succeed at A Level with a mindset which believes that things can be left to the last minute.

Teachers and students who have experienced A Levels all agree, it is crucial to start revising from the beginning of the course and to keep on top of revision as you go along. Therefore we encourage students to make the most of the study areas in the Fideliter building (Year 12) and Olsen building (Year 13)– seeing it as a place they can consolidate and reinforce what they have done in class, rather than simply seeing this time outside of class as an opportunity to do homework, therefore avoiding the necessity to do it in the evening. The students who achieve most highly at A level are the ones who buy into this.

An article on the benefits of Spaced Practice can be found here.

Success Stories

Best ever GCSE results!

95%

Of our students achieved  English and mathematics GCSEs at grades 4 or greater (secure pass).

79%

Of our students achieved English and mathematics GCSEs at grades 5 or greater (good pass).

45%

Of all grades achieved at GCSE were grade 7 or higher.

44%

Of our students achieved grade 7 or higher in 5 or more GCSE subjects.

95%

Of our students were entered for the EBACC

OUTSTANDING

St. Joseph’s College is graded ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.