Dear Parent, Carer and Friends of Lode Heath
Re Year 11 December Examinations:
As the dark nights draw in, the time rapidly approaches for Examinations. With the growth of modular exams in Science, Maths, ICT, Leisure and Tourism etc, it is essential pupils enter the exam hall with the correct preparation and attitude. As you know GCSE exams now start in November Year 10 not June Year 11!
The December examinations are very important, they help determine predicted grades and teacher reports. They are often the most recent and relevant scores when applying for College places or employment opportunities and should be treated very seriously.
The students conduct in public examinations is normally exemplary. However we are very honest with students in telling them what this entails and rigidly enforce this expectation in all examinations at the school. I look to your support in ensuring the following points are adhered to. (Some may seem like stating the obvious!)
•Students must be in full uniform. (Students may be refused entry to the Exam Room, or sent home to change
•Students must bring correct equipment, including 2 pens and 2 pencils (some exams specify BLACK ink and not blue)
•Students are expected to be at the exam room 15 minutes prior to the start time so as to enable instructions to be given and papers distributed
•It is a good idea to bring a clear, non-spill, bottle of water, to be placed on the floor at the side of the exam desk
•Mobile phones, Walkmans, I-Pods etc are BANNED from the exam hall. This is an instruction from Examination Boards to all schools. Possession of these items during an exam may lead to cancellation of the students examination. Do not bring to school during this time
•Communication with any other student or disturbing the examination may result in cancellation of the paper. The examiners have the right to cancel ALL of a students papers not just that one
•If a student brings a pencil case, it should be clear plastic. No bags or pencil cases are allowed at the students desks, they are left outside the Hall
•Do not bring valuables to the exam room
Study leave is given to our Year 11 students from Monday 7 December returning to school on Monday 4 January. This is not holiday time but will largely be taken up with written and practical examinations based on their individual subjects. It is vital that your child understands their examination timetable and especially their individual times for subjects such as French, German, P.E. etc. The school does of course reserve the right to cancel study leave for any student who is falling behind with coursework, or whose coursework is not up to the expected standard.
This is a talented group of young people, they deserve to do well in the summer, together we must ensure they revise / prepare thoroughly. This is the first time they have had such a large group of exams at one time, a diary / plan for Revision is vital. If you have any concerns, contact the school.
Please encourage your child to attend the after school study classes. They are very effective, tried and tested.
Good Luck to parents, students and staff. Year 11 - in the words of Nike Just do it!
J Burton
Headteacher
