Examinations
Examinations
At Ysgol Bryn Alyn, we want to ensure that pupils and parents feel well informed and supported throughout the examination period.
Our Examinations and NEAs (Non-Exam Assessments) section provides important information about upcoming examinations, assessment arrangements, key dates, revision and preparation, as well as guidance on how parents and carers can support their child.
Pupils will receive clear information about their assessments and examinations, including expectations, timetables and any relevant arrangements or support. Where applicable, examination access arrangements and individual needs will be carefully considered and communicated.
Parents and carers can support pupils by encouraging regular revision, good organisation, healthy routines and a positive approach to assessment. We also encourage families to familiarise themselves with key examination dates and school guidance.
Please check this section regularly for important updates, examination timetables, NEA information, revision resources and guidance for parents and pupils.
Assessment Week
Assessment Week is an important opportunity for pupils to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding, practise effective revision strategies and develop confidence in assessment situations.
The week will follow an adapted timetable, with pupils completing assessments, independent revision and activity sessions.
Years 7–9: Assessments will typically last 30–40 minutes.
Years 10–11: Assessments will range from 60 minutes to 2 hours, using past examination-style papers.
Pupils will receive individual timetables detailing their assessments and revision sessions.
Exam concessions and appropriate support will be provided where applicable.
Pupils accessing the Achievement Centre, REACH Centre or ALN support will follow bespoke arrangements.
When pupils are not completing an assessment, they will be expected to undertake independent, silent revision using resources provided by their teachers. We encourage pupils to take responsibility for bringing the equipment and materials they need.
Full attendance is expected throughout Assessment Week. If your child is absent due to illness, please contact the school as soon as possible.
Assessment results will be shared with pupils in January, during Assessment Week Results Day.
Supporting your child
Parents and carers can help by encouraging pupils to prepare a revision timetable, organise their resources and establish positive revision routines. Regular breaks, healthy meals, sufficient sleep and time to relax are all important in supporting wellbeing during this period.
We look forward to working together to ensure Assessment Week is a positive and valuable experience for all our pupils.
The Importance of Revision
Effective revision is an important part of helping pupils build confidence, strengthen their understanding and prepare for assessments and examinations.
Revision works best when it is regular, organised and manageable. Rather than leaving preparation until the last minute, pupils should aim to revise little and often, using a range of strategies such as retrieval practice, flashcards, practice questions, mind maps and past papers.
Parents and carers can support by helping pupils establish a realistic revision routine, providing a quiet space to work and encouraging regular breaks, healthy meals and plenty of sleep.
Most importantly, revision should be approached positively. Good preparation can reduce anxiety, build confidence and help pupils feel ready to demonstrate what they know and understand.