Dear Parents and Carers,

As we reach the start of the GCSE examination season, I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication our Year 11s have shown leading up to this milestone. This is a significant period in their educational journey, and we are committed to ensuring they feel supported, prepared and confident.

The Power of Routine: Sleep, Nutrition, and Health

It is vital Year 11 students look after themselves. To help them perform at their absolute best, we recommend focussing on the following:

• Encouraging a consistent sleep schedule (aiming for 8–9 hours) is vital for memory retention and focus.

• A balanced diet provides the brain with the energy it needs. We recommend providing your child with a range of healthy snacks to bring to school, such as fruit, nuts or oat bars, to keep their energy levels stable between exams.

• Please ensure your child has a clear water bottle (with any labels removed) to take into their exams.

Start the Day Right: The Year 11 Morning Hub

To ensure every student has a calm and nourishing start to their day, our dedicated Year 11 space is open every morning from 7:30 am – 8:05 am. We provide free toast, crumpets and juice. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to fuel up and settle their nerves with their peers and staff before the morning session begins.

Maximising Success: Boosters and Attendance

Our comprehensive programme of pre-school and after-school booster sessions is ongoing. These are designed to provide "just-in-time" revision and top tips for upcoming papers.

Furthermore, please note that students will be attending exam-specific lessons throughout the day. These sessions are tailored to the specific demands of the next scheduled paper; therefore, attendance for the full school day is absolutely vital. Every hour in school counts toward their final grade.

Exam and booster timetables can be found on our exam page

Important Exam Regulations

A reminder that the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) has strict rules regarding the exam hall. Mobile phones, ear pods, and watches are strictly prohibited. To avoid any potential issues, we recommend that these items are left at home or stored securely in bags before entering the hall.

Support and Guidance

We understand that this can be a high-pressure time for families. If your child has any worries or concerns, or if you feel they need extra emotional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to their Form Tutor or Head of Year. We are here to listen and help. One of the easiest ways to contact us is by emailing manc-y11@coopacademies.co.uk.

Finally, I want to thank you for your continued partnership. This is a collective effort, and together we can help them succeed and open the doors to their future ambitions.

We wish all of Year 11 the very best of luck.

Yours sincerely,

Naeem Moosa

Assistant Vice Principal (Quality of Education)