Winter Exam Preparation: Own it

This practice supports our targets for Teaching and Learning in our School Improvement Plan (SIP) 2025-2026. For our First Year students, this is a particularly new transition with exams in many subjects.

You can support your child by doing things such as creating a designated homework/study time each evening and having a space in the home that is free from distractions, like television, smartphones, or games and equipped with the necessary supplies (e.g., pencils, paper, calculators, etc.). A visual schedule could be helpful that takes account of extracurricular activities like sports and music, mealtime, rest and downtime as well as some study time. 

Positive reinforcement, realistic expectations and goals that suit your child's learning style are powerful motivators especially during exam times. We know that when students feel that their efforts are recognised and celebrated, they are more likely to remain motivated and accountable for their work and engagement. Parent-teacher-student collaboration is essential and communication is key. You can remind your child that they can communicate with teachers and tutors directly about questions or concerns they may have during class time or indeed during the exam week. This encourages students to take ownership of their learning process and advocate for themselves, an essential life skill. The following HSE link offers good advice for Managing Exam Stress.

Best wishes for the exams,
Ms V. Kenny
SSE Co-ordinator & 1st Year Head Teacher

Study Habits – Work Smarter, Not Harder
Why it matters:
Good study habits help you stay calm and confident. Last-minute cramming leads to stress and forgetfulness. Planning your time means more free time later—and better results.
Tips to own it:
• Set small goals: study in 25-minute bursts with 5-minute breaks.
• Use a planner or app to stay organized.
• Review notes a few times a week—not just before tests.
• Find your best study space—quiet, tidy, and phone-free.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help when stuck.

Best of luck!
Ms Finnegan
Wellbeing Co-ordinator & 6th Year Head Teacher

Teaching and Learning Targets: School Improvement Plan (SIP) 2025 - 2026  
Theme: Own It.
'All teachers, all students, all classes'.
As part of our goals set for Teaching and Learning in August the following SMART Targets were agreed by teachers for all students in all classes. These targets were based on surveys conducted by all stakeholders (students, parents, and teachers) in May 2025 as well as feedback from student focus groups last academic year. These targets will be reviewed In January and May.

Targets
1. All teachers will support students with exam preparation through focused summative and formative assessment practices. Teachers will provide some of the following as appropriate: marking schemes, rubrics, exemplars,  sample questions and sample answers to students.
2. All teachers will build on feedback techniques e.g. SMART Target: Teachers will provide timely & constructive written feedback to students that aligns with learning outcomes and success criteria for at least 2 x major pieces of work set this term. Feedback could be descriptive e.g. 2 Stars & a Wish and criterion-based feedback. 
3. Students will receive 2 x pieces of their feedback digitally e.g. School Wise; One Note.

These targets will be reviewed in December and May through surveys and regularly through Focus Groups throughout the year.