Exams can be a stressful time for students, but with the right revision strategies, preparation can become more efficient and effective. Many students struggle with where to start, how to structure their study time, and which techniques work best. This guide provides ten proven revision tips that can help students maximise their learning, stay motivated, and feel more confident going into their exams. From creating a structured timetable to using past papers and taking regular breaks, these strategies are designed to improve focus and retention while reducing exam stress. Whether your child is preparing for GCSEs, A-Levels, or entrance exams, or end of term tests these practical tips can make a significant difference in their performance and overall well-being. Before hiring a tutor check that you have all these tips covered.

1. Prioritise Focus Over Hours

Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to revision. Many students believe that spending hours staring at a book equates to effective studying, but without concentration, this time can be wasted. Short, focused study sessions of around 25–40 minutes, followed by a 5–10-minute break, can be far more productive than endless hours of passive reading. The key is active engagement—taking notes, summarising information, and testing oneself.

Minimising distractions is essential. Mobile phones and social media can significantly disrupt focus, so consider putting the phone in another room or using apps like Offtime and Forest to block distractions. Some students benefit from background noise, like instrumental music or white noise, while others need complete silence. Experimenting with different focus techniques can help students find their optimal study conditions.

2. Use Past Papers Effectively

Past papers are one of the most valuable revision tools available. They help students familiarise themselves with the format and types of questions they will encounter in their exams, reducing anxiety and improving confidence. Working through past papers under timed conditions is a great way to refine time management and identify areas that need improvement.

Many exam boards for GCSE and A-level such as Edexcel, AQA, Edexcel and Eduqas provide free access to past papers and mark schemes on their websites. For entrance exam papers refer to our dedicated page with hundreds of past papers. Reviewing mark schemes is just as important as completing the papers, as it helps students understand how marks are awarded and what examiners look for in responses. Additionally, self-marking or discussing answers with a tutor or teacher can highlight common mistakes and areas for further revision.

3. Create a Balanced Revision Timetable

A well-structured revision timetable is essential for covering all subjects and avoiding last-minute cramming. Many students tend to revise subjects they enjoy or find easier, neglecting weaker areas. A balanced timetable ensures that all topics receive adequate attention. Planning revision in advance also reduces stress and makes the workload feel more manageable.

Mornings are often the best time for tackling difficult subjects since concentration levels are at their peak. Encourage students to mix subjects throughout the day to maintain variety and interest. For example, pairing a more challenging subject like Maths with a preferred subject like English can keep motivation high. Using apps like My Study Life or pen-and-paper planners can help students stick to their schedules.

4. Incorporate Rewards and Breaks

Revision can be mentally draining, and students need to look after their well-being during exam season. Scheduling rewards and enjoyable activities can make the process less overwhelming and provide motivation to stick to a study plan. A simple reward system—such as a favourite snack after completing a study session, or an hour of free time after a productive afternoon—can make a big difference.

Breaks should also be planned strategically. Short breaks every 30–40 minutes help prevent fatigue, and longer breaks for socialising, exercise, or relaxation can improve focus in the long run. Encouraging activities like a walk in the park, a trip to the cinema, or even just listening to music can help students recharge and return to their studies feeling refreshed.

5. Consider Personalised Support

For students struggling with certain subjects or topics, personalised tuition can provide the extra support needed to boost confidence and improve performance. A tutor can identify weak areas, provide tailored explanations, and offer strategies to approach difficult questions. This is particularly useful for students aiming for top grades or those who experience exam anxiety.

Many students waste valuable time during exam leave struggling with concepts they do not understand. A few one-to-one sessions with a tutor can clear up confusion quickly and allow students to focus on effective revision. Whether in-person or online, professional tutoring provides structured guidance and personalised feedback, making study time more efficient.

6. Use Effective Study Tools

The right study tools can make revision more engaging and effective. Colourful notes, highlighters, flashcards, and mind maps help students organise information visually, which can enhance memory retention. Flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet are particularly useful for quick recall of key concepts and definitions.

Encouraging neat and organised notes can also make revisiting material easier. Some students find that rewriting and condensing notes helps reinforce their understanding. Others benefit from voice recordings or summary videos. Finding the right tools that suit an individual’s learning style can significantly enhance revision efficiency.

7. Take Regular, Structured Breaks

Research suggests that studying in short, focused sessions with regular breaks enhances concentration and retention. The Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes of study followed by a 5-minute break—is a popular and effective approach. Longer study sessions should include a 10–15-minute break every hour to prevent mental fatigue.

Physical activity during breaks can boost brain function and reduce stress. Encourage students to go for a walk, do some stretching, or engage in a quick workout. Even a change of scenery, such as stepping outside for fresh air, can improve focus when they return to their studies. Avoiding excessive screen time during breaks is also recommended to prevent eye strain and mental exhaustion.

8. Identify Your Child’s Learning Style

Every student learns differently, and understanding their preferred learning style can enhance revision efficiency. Some students are visual learners and benefit from diagrams, mind maps, and colour-coded notes. Others are auditory learners who remember information better by listening to recordings or discussing topics aloud. Kinesthetic learners, who learn best through hands-on activities, might find interactive exercises, writing summaries, or using a whiteboard more effective.

Encouraging students to experiment with different learning techniques can help them discover what works best. For example, recording themselves explaining a topic and listening back to it can be helpful for auditory learners, while using spaced repetition flashcards can be beneficial for those who need frequent recall practice.

9. Explore Group Revision and Courses

While some students prefer studying alone, others benefit from collaborative learning. Group revision sessions can be a great way to reinforce knowledge through discussion and peer teaching. Explaining a concept to someone else is one of the most effective ways to solidify understanding.

Revision courses, either in-person or online, provide structured support and expert guidance. These courses often focus on exam technique, helping students develop the skills needed to answer questions effectively under timed conditions. If your child enjoys learning in a group setting, a revision course may be a good investment.

10. Have an Exam-Day Strategy

A well-prepared exam strategy can make a significant difference in performance. Encourage students to get a good night’s sleep before their exam, eat a nutritious breakfast, and arrive at the exam venue with plenty of time to spare. Staying calm and confident is crucial—last-minute cramming can often do more harm than good.

Time management during the exam is key. Students should allocate their time wisely, ensuring they leave enough time to check their answers. For essay-based subjects, structuring responses before writing can help maintain clarity and coherence. In multiple-choice or short-answer questions, it’s essential to read instructions carefully and not rush through the paper.

After the exam, encourage students to move on and focus on the next subject rather than dwelling on what went wrong. Exams can be stressful, but a strong strategy can help students stay composed and perform at their best.

For additional strategies on effective revision, visit Cornell University’s Learning Strategies Center and North Carolina State University’s Study Skills Resources.

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Mathematics is more than just solving equations; it cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a logical mindset that are invaluable in various aspects of life. Beyond the academic realm, instilling a strong foundation in mathematics also holds profound implications for a child’s future. 

Whether it’s the early years of KS1 or the advanced levels of KS5, parents and tutors can play a crucial role in supporting students with maths and navigating educational milestones. 

So, Why does Maths Matter?

As children progress through the Key Stages, the importance of mathematics becomes increasingly evident. In the early years, an understanding of mathematics lays the groundwork for logical reasoning and decision-making. As students approach exams like the 11+ and GCSEs, mathematical proficiency becomes a gateway to academic achievements, unlocking opportunities for further education and career paths.

Moreover, the applications of mathematics extend far beyond the classroom. In everyday scenarios, from budgeting and financial literacy to understanding data and making informed decisions, mathematical skills empower individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence. For those pursuing A-Level Maths and beyond, the depth of mathematical understanding becomes a powerful tool for success in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, where innovation and problem-solving are paramount.

Parents and tutors play pivotal roles in emphasising the long-term benefits of mastering mathematics. By nurturing mathematics from an early age, parents and tutors can build students’ mathematical literacy, increase confidence and encourage analytical thinking which are all essential for their futures.

In this guide, we will explore tutor-recommended strategies for each Key Stage, along with valuable external resources to help parents bolster mathematical prowess beyond the classroom.

What Are The Best Strategies For Supporting Students With Maths?

KS1 (Age 5-7) – Laying the Foundation for Mathematical Fluency

Long before they reach KS1, children will have likely been exposed to elements of mathematics through nursery and activities like reading or even watching television at home. 

As children enter Key Stage 1, these simple tools can help build that foundation and a strong understanding of mathematics that carries with them as they progress through the education system.

• Playful Learning: Introduce mathematical concepts through interactive games and activities. Board games, puzzles and everyday tasks can become enjoyable learning opportunities.
• Visual Aids: Use visual aids, such as counting tools and colourful diagrams, to make abstract concepts more tangible for young minds.
• Real-Life Applications: Showcase the relevance of mathematics in daily life. Counting everyday objects, measuring ingredients during cooking or sorting household items can enhance understanding.

KS2 (Age 7-11) – Preparing for 11+ Exam Success

As the 11+ exams loom for many students in Key Stage 2, there is a need to strengthen their grasp of mathematics, particularly across things like basic addition, subtraction, multiplications and fractions. Tutors and parents can best support young students through: 

• Structured Practice: Implement a structured study routine covering all areas of the KS2 curriculum and use practice papers to familiarise students with the format of exams.
• Problem-Solving: Emphasise problem-solving skills through challenging questions. Encourage students to articulate their thought processes and explore multiple approaches to problem-solving. 
• Regular Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement and celebrate achievements. Positive reinforcement is key during this stage.
• Supporting students with stress management techniques: Nerves, stress and anxiety can play a huge role in exam performance. Even if students have revised and practised, it can be futile if a child is not  mentally and emotionally prepared for an exam environment. Recognising the signs of exam stress and providing coping techniques like these can help ease a child’s nerves and better their chances of success when they sit their 11+.

KS3 (Age 11-14) – Secondary Mathematics

As students enter secondary education, the mathematical landscape inevitably becomes more challenging and coupled with starting a new school, this can be overwhelming. To help support students as they navigate this change, parents and tutors can:

• Get ahead on Advanced Topics: Introduce advanced topics gradually to prepare students for the increased complexity of KS3. Fractions, decimals and algebra should be approached systematically.
• Encourage Independence: Foster independent learning by assigning challenging problems that require critical thinking. This promotes resilience and self-reliance in approaching mathematical challenges.
• Real-world Applications: Showcase how mathematical concepts are applied in real-world scenarios to enhance students’ appreciation for the subject.

KS4 (Age 14-16) – GCSE Preparation and Beyond

Mathematics remains a mandatory part of the curriculum at GCSE level and more advanced topics which may include probability, statistics, trigonometry and the law of indices. The transition to GCSE level can be challenging for students as homework, revision and lessons become more intense but adopting these techniques outside the classroom can continue to support their development and approach to exams:

• Exam Techniques: Familiarise students with GCSE exam techniques, including time management, question analysis and effective revision strategies.
• Transition Planning: Discuss post-GCSE options, ensuring students understand the relevance and applicability of mathematics in future academic and career paths.
• Stress Management Techniques: As we explored in our guidance for supporting students at KS2, we know stress can really impact exam performance. Look out for signs of children experiencing exam stress and encourage them to implement these coping techniques to help keep nerves at bay so they can bring their best to exams. 

KS5 (Age 16+) – A-Level Maths Mastery

Finally, comes KS5. Although this is an optional subject at A-Level, it is one that opens many doors to tertiary education and career avenues thereafter. Coupled with the added pressure of securing a university place and managing other topics at an intense level, this can be an incredibly high-stress period for young adults. Fortunately, these techniques can support learning in the lead up to and during A-Levels:

• Independent Research: If a student has opted for mathematics at A-Level, one would hope it’s a subject they feel passionate about or see as one of their strengths. With that in mind, we suggest encouraging students to engage in independent research, delving into mathematical topics beyond the A-Level curriculum to further their passion for and understanding of the subject.

• University and Career Guidance: Not all students will want to go into higher education( and we cover more on alternative routes after secondary school here) but mathematics will play a role in most career paths.

If applicable, offer students advice on how A-Level mathematics can prepare students for their chosen university course or potential professional fields that will require strong mathematical skills and identify additional areas for independent research or further knowledge required to pursue these avenues.

How a Private Tutor Can Help

Private tutors are invaluable when it comes to supporting students with maths (as well as a wealth of other topics of course). At any Key Stage, a tutor can be engaged to help bolster a student’s knowledge, complement the mathematics skills acquired during lessons and provide personalised recommendations on areas for improvement and how parents can further support at home. 

At Hampstead and Frognal Tutors we know every child is different and that each student has a unique learning style. Our experienced and specialist mathematics tutors know from first-hand experience how to work with students to nurture and strengthen mathematical minds.

Our tutors will craft a bespoke programme that is tailored to your child’s individual needs to best support their learning and ensure students stay on track to achieve their academic goals as they progress through each Key Stage.

Supporting Students with Maths: Additional Resources to Bolster Confidence and Mathematical Development

Beyond private tuition and the techniques above, there are also a number of useful resources parents and students can leverage to support mathematics development and independent learning, for example:

• Podcasts are an easy format for students to digest and data suggests this is where 66%+ of Gen Zs listen to podcasts to stay informed on relevant topics and 82% listen as a standalone activity vs multitasking¹. 

While many podcasts are hosted by individuals based in the US, there is often a lot of common ground between subject matter here in the UK so plenty of useful knowledge for students to soak up. 

Some of the more popular mathematics podcasts include Breaking Math which aims to make mathematics accessible to all and The Numberphile which includes interviews “with people who love maths.” 

• Alongside Math TV and Khan Academy, Numberphile is also home to a YouTube channel with over 700 videos focused on mathematics. For students at KS4, The Maths Teacher offers GCSE-focused tutorials and exam tips too.

• Online learning platforms such as Seneca are also excellent free resources to help students practise and learn. Seneca’s mission is to reduce educational inequality by offering accessible and effective resources to students in KS2 and above worldwide. To date, the platform has over 500 courses available across 29 subjects! 

For younger students, platforms like BBC Bitesize is a great online tool that reflects the curriculum but uses activities, games and quizzes to support learning in a fun and engaging way.

• Books and practice papers like the Mental Arithmetic series from Schofield & Sims are also a fantastic and accessible way for children to practise and develop mathematics skills across most key stages. 

Supporting students with maths and nurturing a mathematical mind requires a tailored approach at each Key Stage but this can be supported by input from parents and private tutors outside of school. By embracing simple techniques and leveraging external tools, parents and tutors can empower students to not only succeed academically but also develop a lasting enthusiasm for mathematics that carries with them into adulthood.

Sources:

¹ Insider Intelligence, June 2023

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With school entrance exams and GCSE and A Level mocks just around the corner, you may be wondering how to help your child with exam revision over the Christmas break. No student wants to be glued to their books during yuletide activities, so here are a few suggestions to make holiday schoolwork a little less Grinch-like.

Little and often is key

For children taking the 11+ or the 13+ in January, it is sensible to set aside a little time every day, or every other day, for revision. With younger children, it is important to keep things ticking over as tricky mathematical methods and difficult spellings are easily forgotten over the Christmas break. Short, regular revision sessions are likely to be more effective —and more fun —thanlong stints sitting at a desk.

Plan some treats

Whether it is a trip to the ice rink or a visit to some Christmas markets, make sure to intersperse revision with some festive outings. A few rewards will provide more motivation to study and —more importantly —give children the chance to enjoy their well earned school holiday.  

Get the whole family involved

Nothing is worse than hearing everyone having fun together in the kitchen as you sit staring at a page of trigonometry. Revision doesn’t have to a solitary affair, however: take the time to quiz your child on arithmetic and spelling, and encourage other members of the family —older siblings, aunts, grandparents —to do the same. A maths problem shared is a maths problem halved.

Try to inject some yuletide cheer

Although an 11+ past paper may be the least festive thing known to man, do your best to make it fun. Hunt down some Christmas maths quizzes, or find a Noel themed English comprehension passage. Schoolwork will never be as enjoyable as eating mince pies, but it doesn’t have to be chore.

Schedule in some private tuition

If you have decided to hire a tutor, it is a good idea to timetable in a couple of lessons during the Christmas break. Whether your child is struggling with a particular topic, or is experiencing pre-exam nerves, a tutor will boost their confidence and help clear up their confusion before school starts again in January.  

Play games

For young students, sometimes a game of Scrabble or Trivial Pursuit is just as worthwhile as agonising over a non-verbal reasoning test. Anything that keeps children’s brains active over the holiday is sure to be a good thing —plus Christmas is a time for families to spend quality time together.

Draw up a timetable

If your child has GCSE or A Level mocks in January, encourage them to make a timetable. It is hard for teenagers to know how much progress they are making over the holidays, and a timetable will make them feel like they are making real headway. It is important to be realistic — don’t let them schedule in 14 hours of Chemistry revision on Christmas Eve. But scheduling in a few hours in every day — and marking in some work-free days — is a great way for teenagers to make the most of the Christmas break.  

Set some goals

Whether your child is about to sit the 11+ or an A Level exam, think about some key objectives they should aim to achieve over the holiday. These don’t have to be detailed, but it will help to avoid panic later in the day, and fill your child with a real sense of achievement once Christmas comes to an end.

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Boarding schools versus day schools – which is better?

Considering whether to send your child to a boarding school or day school can feel like a momentous choice. Both types of school have their benefits and disadvantages, and it is important to consider where your child will thrive best. Equally, both sectors are incredibly varied; there are competitive, sporty day schools, liberal co-ed boarding schools and everything in between. It is certainly worth spending time researching and visiting a range of schools in both sectors. Make sure to discuss any options with your child, and give them input in the decision-making process; they are far more likely to flourish at a school of their choice.

Boarding – the key benefits:

Independence

Boarding schools foster a remarkable sense of personal responsibility and independence. Students learn to take the lead in both their lessons and wider activities; at Eton, for example, most extra-curricular activities are run by the students themselves. Westminster is known for encouraging a debate-style curriculum where students are free to challenge one another’s views. This cultivation of independence also extends to students’ lives in boarding houses; at Wycombe Abbey, girls in the sixth form move into Clarence House to experience ‘university-style’ living, so that the transition to college life is relatively seamless. Cheltenham Ladies’ College also operates separate boarding houses for the sixth form, giving the oldest students a greater degree of independence.

Social skills

Whilst children socialise at day schools too, the experience of living and working with your peers can be instrumental in forming life-long friendships, as well as helping students develop excellent communication skills. Many former boarders report how their friends from school are like siblings to them, and most schools recreate a familial structure through ‘mixed-age’ dormitories. Having such close bonds with peers gives students the self-confidence they need to adapt to new environments in later life.

Flexibility

Boarding offers families flexibility. For professional parents who travel frequently on business, a day-school routine would need to be supplemented by a host of other child-care arrangements. Boarding can therefore offer both children and parents greater consistency. Schools have also evolved considerably over the years to provide a range of boarding options to suit families; most schools now offer flexi or weekly boarding, where students spend part of the week or weekends at home. This can also be a good way to test whether full boarding would suit your child.

Free time

Day-school counterparts may spend their evenings in a whirlwind of activities, yet most boarders benefit from unstructured free time before dinner or at weekends. Unhampered by technology (mobile phones are usually banned) students are free to relax with friends in their boarding-house in the evenings. The use of supervised ‘prep’ time to complete homework allows students to concentrate fully on homework whilst not feeling unduly burdened by academic pressure.

Boarding – the disadvantages:

It is not for everyone

Whilst many students flourish at boarding-school, it does not always suit every child. It would be unwise to withdraw a child at the first sign of homesickness, yet not every young person is ready to live away from their parents. Think carefully about how your child would adapt, and investigate the pastoral support offered by the school. Most schools do have a range of excellent support, from operating a ‘buddy’ system for newcomers to the pastoral care offered by house masters and mistresses. Nonetheless, if your child seems anxious about the prospect of boarding, it could be unwise to pressure them into a change of school. Studies suggest students adapt to boarding much more readily if they themselves have chosen to board.

Day Schools – the benefits:

Closer supervision

One of the most important benefits of day schooling is that it enables you to keep in much closer contact with your child. Spending time together each day as a family arguably creates stronger bonds between you, as well as giving you greater input as a parent. You have a detailed understanding of your child’s well-being, their current friendships and latest passions, as well as being aware of any worries or concerns they might have (academic or otherwise).

Academic Excellence

There are clearly some very academically successful boarding schools, yet day schools seem to have the edge; of the 50 top secondary independent schools in The Times’ 2018 League Table, just 15 are boarding schools. In terms of why this might be the case, day schools can perhaps be more selective owing to the level of competition for places, especially within London. Nonetheless, using an 11+ tutor can help your child in navigating the admissions tests, giving them access to some of the best educational provision in the country. The results at many top London day schools speak for themselves; at Highgate School this year, 68% of all A Level candidates achieved 1 A* or more; at St Paul’s Girls’ School, a staggering 92% of all GCSE grades were an A*. Even for academically selective schools, these results are highly impressive.

Co-ed schooling

Whilst mixed boarding schools exist, co-ed schooling is far more prevalent in day schools. Many parents now actively seek mixed schooling for their children, as single-sex education is viewed as somewhat old-fashioned. Given that young men and women will need to work together at university and in later life, single-sex boarding schools can seem rather outdated.

Wider cultural experiences

In London day schools, students can take advantage of the plethora of wider cultural experiences on their doorstep. City of London School is notably only a few minutes’ walk away from the Tate Modern, whilst University College School students can enjoy theatre and cultural events in both Hampstead and central London. This is not to suggest that boarding schools do not offer a wide range of extra-curricular trips and experiences, yet students in central London are uniquely well-placed to attend seminars, films and exhibitions on a diverse range of topics.

Disadvantages:

Lack of flexibility

Day schooling may not be the best option for families with demanding schedules; although most offer after-school clubs and activities, working parents will still need to arrange childcare and other supervision for their children. Many families therefore decide that children will feel more settled in a boarding environment with their peers; this is especially true for parents who may need to spend extended periods of time overseas.

So, which is best?

Overall, there is no definitive answer on which type of school may be best for your child. There is considerable diversity within each sector, so that it is difficult to generalise about either type of school. The best day and boarding schools will offer excellent provision in all areas, so that students benefit from outstanding teaching, first-class extra-curricular activities and brilliant facilities.

Before coming to a decision, visit a range of schools and consider which type of school will suit your child’s needs, as well as the needs of the family. Think about your child’s individual characteristics and how the school may support their interests and abilities. Nonetheless, ultimately, once your child is settled at a highly regarded school, whether day or boarding, they are likely to flourish and enjoy the wealth of opportunities on offer. Most schools are also increasingly flexible, with some day schools offering a limited amount of boarding places in sixth form (St Paul’s School, for instance, while predominantly a day school, has thirty-five places for boarders, with flexi and weekly boarding offered to suit individual families). Equally, most boarding schools also now offer a number of arrangements to allow each child to adapt to boarding at their own pace.

How to apply

Once you have investigated which school is the best option for your family, it may be advisable to employ an English tutor or Maths tutor to assist in preparing your child for the 11+ or 13+ Common Entrance exam. Entrance requirements for the most prestigious schools are highly competitive, so ensure your child is prepared through practising past papers with an 11+ or 13+ tutor. Besides Maths and English others subjects will be assessed in 13+ Common Entrance Tests and 13+ Scholarships. A tutor may also be able to help your child prepare for interview questions, an important part of the overall application process.

Whilst choosing the right school for your child can feel daunting, there is outstanding provision available in both sectors. If you research the options carefully and attend open days with your child, you will almost certainly find a school that is right for them, where they can flourish academically and socially.

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