How Your Child Should Plan for Their Mock Exams

Mock exams play a crucial role in preparing students for their final GCSEs. They provide a valuable opportunity to practise under exam conditions, identify areas for improvement, and build confidence. As a parent or guardian, you can support your child by helping them plan effectively. Here's how they can get the most out of their mock exam preparation.

1. Start Early, But Not Too Early

Encourage your child to begin their revision at least 6–8 weeks before their mock exams. This gives them enough time to review content without becoming overwhelmed. Starting early helps avoid last-minute cramming and allows time to revisit tricky topics.

2. Create a Realistic Revision Timetable

A clear, structured revision timetable is key. Help your child:

• Break down subjects into manageable topics.
• Allocate time slots for each topic across the week.
• Build in time for breaks, hobbies, and rest.
• Leave flexibility for reviewing difficult areas.

Stick the timetable somewhere visible, on a bedroom wall or the fridge and make sure it’s realistic and achievable. You can create a revision timetable on Revision World.

3. Prioritise Subjects Strategically

Students often focus on their favourite subjects, but it's important to prioritise areas where they feel less confident. Encourage your child to:

• Spend more time on weaker subjects or topics.
• Rotate subjects to keep things fresh and maintain motivation.
• Use mock exams as an opportunity to improve grades across the board.

4. Use a Variety of Revision Techniques

Effective revision isn’t just about reading notes. Your child should use active revision methods, such as:

• Past papers and practice questions – essential for exam technique.
• Quizzes– to help test core knowledge.
• Flashcards – great for memorising key facts and definitions.
• Mind maps and diagrams – helpful for visual learners.
• Teaching others – explaining a topic to someone else can reinforce understanding.

Encourage your child to experiment with different methods to find what works best for them.

5. Keep a Balanced Routine

It’s easy for revision to take over, but a healthy balance is essential. Make sure your child:

• Gets regular exercise and fresh air.
• Eats nutritious meals.
• Gets enough sleep, aim for 8 hours a night.
• Has time to unwind and socialise.

A well-rested and emotionally balanced student will revise more effectively and perform better in exams.

6. Review and Reflect

As the mock exams approach, your child should spend time:

• Reviewing what they've learnt.
• Doing timed practice under exam conditions.
• Reflecting on mistakes and using feedback to improve.

After the mocks, help your child to go over their results and identify strengths and weaknesses. Remind them that mocks are a learning experience, not the final outcome.

7. Offer Encouragement, Not Pressure

Lastly, your role is to be supportive, not to add stress. Reassure your child that it’s okay to make mistakes in the mocks, that’s what they’re for. Celebrate effort, not just results, and keep communication open.

Final Thoughts

Mock exams are a valuable stepping stone towards GCSE success. With good planning, consistent effort, and parental support, your child can approach them with confidence. Encourage a healthy routine, promote positive revision habits, and remind them that progress is more important than perfection.