How to help your child revise for GCSEs over Christmas
By Bethany Evans
Mentor
If you’re supporting your child with their GCSE revision over the Christmas break, this guide will help you navigate the process and ensure they make the most of their time.
Read on to:
· Discover strategies for creating a structured revision plan that works for your child
· Learn how to balance study with festive activities to keep your child energised
· Understand the importance of integrating both note-taking and past papers into their revision
· Get tips for prioritising rest and avoiding burnout during the holiday season
· Find out how Oppidan mentors can provide tailored support for your child’s revision journey
As Christmas approaches, many parents face the challenge of balancing festive fun with GCSE revision. While it's important for your child to recharge and enjoy the holidays, it's equally crucial they stay on track with their revision. With the right approach, they can remain focused while still soaking up the holiday spirit. Here’s how you can support them in making the most of their Christmas break, setting them up for success come exam time.
1. Create a structured revision plan together
One of the best ways you can support your child during the holiday revision period is by helping them create a structured revision plan. Without a clear roadmap, revision can quickly feel overwhelming, leaving your child unsure of where to start or what to prioritise. Together, break subjects down into manageable chunks and focus on the areas where they need the most help. Consider factoring in extra time for challenging subjects, while allowing your child to spend less time on topics they already feel confident about. This way, the plan will feel more achievable and ensure they’re making the most of their time.
2. Set achievable goals and celebrate progress
Goal setting can have a huge impact on your child’s motivation. Work with your child to set both short-term and long-term revision goals. Short-term goals might include mastering a particular topic or completing a set of practice questions, while long-term goals could focus on achieving specific grades in their exams. By making these goals clear and attainable, your child will feel a sense of accomplishment as they tick off each one.
It’s also essential to celebrate these milestones. Positive reinforcement—whether it’s a small reward after a productive session or a family outing after completing a difficult task—helps to keep your child motivated. The sense of progress is key to building confidence and sustaining focus through the busy revision months ahead.
3. Notes vs. past papers: finding time for both
When it comes to GCSE revision, striking the right balance between reviewing notes and working through past papers is key. Both are essential, but they serve different purposes in preparing your child for success. Notes help reinforce core knowledge, ensuring your child understands key concepts and has a solid foundation. However, past papers are equally important as they simulate the exam environment, helping your child familiarise themselves with question formats and practice applying their knowledge under timed conditions.
Encourage your child to integrate both into their revision timetable. Start with notes to ensure the content is fresh, then move on to past papers to test their understanding. Reviewing past papers will also highlight areas where they need to focus more. By balancing both approaches, your child can tackle their mocks with confidence, knowing they have a strong grasp of the content and the exam techniques to succeed.
4. Prioritise rest and balance study with festivities
Rest is just as important as revision, and it’s crucial your child takes time to relax and recharge. While it can be tempting to focus on long hours of study, remember that Christmas is a time for family, celebration, and relaxation. Encourage good sleep hygiene, regular breaks, and time spent away from study to help maintain their energy and focus.
Support your child in carving out time for hobbies, family activities, and well-earned breaks—whether it's baking together, watching Christmas films, or enjoying family outings. This balance will ensure they return to their studies feeling refreshed and motivated. A healthy work-life balance now will set them up for long-term success, as research shows that a well-rested mind is far more effective than one that’s overworked. Balance is truly key.
5. Pair your child with a mentor for academic support
Supporting your child through GCSE revision can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Oppidan Education, we specialise in helping students build confidence, resilience, and academic skills through one-to-one mentoring. Our mentors are dedicated to helping students navigate their revision, develop effective study habits, and stay motivated throughout the process.
Whether your child needs help with specific subjects, exam technique, time management, or simply someone to keep them accountable, our team of inspiring mentors are here to help. With years of experience and a focus on positive growth, we offer tailored support that will empower your child to approach their GCSEs with confidence.