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Be prepared for the work load!
From Year 11 to Year 12, the biggest different I noticed immediately was the workload. It is much more than GCSE, so make sure you get it done when you get it to stay on top. And obviously, do it all!
Get ready to meet new people!
By the end of High School, I bet you think you have met everyone there is to meet... but no! You will be in classes with new Thorpies and people from other schools. You won't come across those you were friends with as much as the years before. Be friendly and approachable and you're bound to make new friends! this year.
Begin thinking about post Sixth Form plans!
You may think that it is ridiculous to be looking at Universities when you have just started Year 12, but it is not! The earlier you start looking and thinking, the better. The time to start looking around Universities and make decisions will come around very fast, so it's best to be prepared.
The transition from Year 11 to Year 12 can be scary. Picking and starting Sixth Form is probably the biggest decision you have made for your education! But here are some tips to make it easier:
GCSEs are not the same as A Levels!
You may have been a straight A* pupil at GCSE, but this does not guarantee good A Levels. Be proud of your exam results, but also be ready to begin learning all over again.
Enjoy it!
Despite all the scary parts and work, this is the last 2 years you'll probably be around the people you've known for a long time. Enjoy the transition and the new found increased freedom!
Get involved!
There are so many opportunities in Year 12 to get involved in the school community which weren't available in Year 11; take advantage of them! The more you take part in, the better it looks on your personal statement etc. and it is fun!
Concentrate!
Year 11 was important of course, but Year 12 is when your education becomes pivotal for your future, so make sure you concentrate. Catch up on any missed lessons, do not allow yourself to fall behind. Make sure you understand everything, if you don't, ask!
Tips from a
Year 12
Use your study periods!
Coming up from Year 11 to Year 12, I know I was excited for my study periods, to relax. But that is not a good idea (at least not all the time)! Use them productively. They are a perfect time to get work done and out of the way.
Get organised!
I am sure you were organised at GCSE with your revision, but beginning Year 12 means beginning to be consistently organised, not just in exams. Organisation will make everything easier.
Start revising!
Again, you may think it is ridicilous to be revising at the beginning of Year 12, but exams will come about so quickly. So make sure you are going over stuff as you learn it to help solidify your understanding.
Written by Abbie Dawson