How to Prepare for Sixth Form
Whether you're staying at the same school for sixth form or you're starting at a new college, year 12 can be a big shift. And with September right around the corner, it's important to be prepared. So with that in mind, here's my advice on how to prepare for starting sixth form:
Form good habits
Chances are, you'll be studying significantly fewer subjects at A-Level than you were at GCSE. This means that your new timetable will probably have a lot of 'free periods' in them. When you start, it’ll be tempting to spend these free periods going out for coffee with your friends or hanging out in the common room. However, you will benefit long term if you try and get into the habit of using this time constructively. Your workload will likely be a lot more than you're used to, so it's good to stay on top of it from day one.
Get organised
Not only will you be getting more homework, but you'll also be covering a lot more in your classes, so it's important that you stay organised. Whether you type up notes on a laptop or store them in folders, make sure you keep all your work in one place. This will make it easier when revision time comes around as you'll only have one folder to look through.
Find what works for you
Everyone works in different ways, and as the subjects become harder, finding out what works for you will become even more important. If you work best in total silence, why not try working on your own in the library? Or maybe you could put some noise-cancelling headphones on to drown out the sound or your classmates. If you work best when talking through difficult problems, see if you can form a study group where you discuss things together. As tempting as it is to just sit and work with your friends make sure you prioritise your work; they’ll understand.
Respect your teachers
There's always going to be one teacher that, no matter how hard you try, you just can't get along with, and that's ok! But try not to get on the wrong side of your new teachers on day one. They'll be the first person you should turn to when things get difficult. Make a point of turning up on time to your lessons with everything you need and your homework completed. This way, they'll be much more inclined to sit down and talk through things with you 1:1 if you need help.
Be the best you that you can be
It's a big step from GCSEs to A-Levels, and there's bound to be a learning curve. Just remember that everyone learns at a different rate, so don't compare yourself to your classmates! Just do the best you can do and don't be hard on yourself if that's less than someone else. Go at your own pace and ask for help when you need it, that's all anyone can ask.
It's ok to change your mind
You might have chosen your subjects several months ago convinced that they were what you wanted to study. But if you get to your second week of the term and find that you're dreading one particular subject, then it's ok to change! What's important is that you tell your teacher as soon as you realise you want to change subjects. The sooner you swap classes, the less catching up you'll have to do!
Make sure you've got everything you need before you start
Finally, make sure that you've got all your textbooks, notepads and stationery that you'll need before the start of the term. You might have started the term with the best of intentions, but if you don't have the right materials then you'll be playing catchup from day one! Check to see if your college has sent you a list of required materials and if they haven't, then call them up and ask.
I hope this guide has helped you feel a little bit more prepared for sixth form. If you're still worried or have any questions, please feel free to get in touch either here on my website or via my social media channels. I'm here to help!