WG6 Student Correspondent – Novemeber feature
“Hi, my name is Ruby Kaufman the student correspondent for WG6.
The question I posed to my fellow students this past week was “if you had to go back to Year 12 and do it all over again, what would you do differently?”
I received a variety of responses, some laughs and genuine answers and have worked to collectivize Year 13 students’ opinions and my own to curate the best advice for any Year 12’s.
When starting Year 12, there are lots of changes, from new friends, a new school and a completely different set of teachers, however, whilst this can be overwhelming the best way to approach it is to be willing to adapt. Have a positive attitude and be ready to embrace change rather than hold on to the past and how school used to be.
It is easy to sugar-coat and argue that everything is perfect! There will be issues and challenges with friendships and exams but there is always someone to help. One student I spoke to, who studies 4 A-Levels mainly STEM subjects, stressed the importance of asking for help. She said to reach out to teachers when you are struggling, the jump from GCSE to A Level is difficult but they understand that and are willing to help you and work through select topics. Building these relationships with teachers will only benefit you in the future as they can provide great subject references for university applications.
Other students I spoke to study essay-based subjects, and they mentioned the significance of building notes throughout the year. After finishing a topic, take 30 minutes to create a revision resource which reduces cramming content just before exams and high levels of stress. As someone who did not do this, I cannot stress how much this would have helped me and now I struggle to balance practicing exam techniques and subsequently creating revision resources.
One of the most repeated answers I got from fellow peers was to use the studies they provide you with at school, it’s easy to get distracted and view them as “free” periods but taking them seriously will reduce all the work you have to do at home and can create a clear divide between school life and home.
Lastly from me, “I do not know” is an acceptable answer. You do not have to have your whole career path figured out and many students struggle with what they want to do. This is okay! If you do have clear direction, run with it, do as much as you can in Year 12 to gain experience in that field to benefit your own applications and personal statements however if you do not know, visit online events, lectures and network! This may help you find your interests and help secure a work experience placement in Year 12. It can be fun and exciting, but my best advice is to do this in Year 12 when you have the opportunity and are free from the stress of UCAS.”
