With assessment season approaching at Keighley College, it’s normal to feel a bit of pressure and nerves. Whether you’re preparing for English and maths GCSEs, A levels or end-of-programme assessments, having the right revision approach and attitude can help you with your exam performance. 

No matter what stage you’re at, it’s not too late to get to grips with course material. We’ve provided some tips to help you approach this season positively and get the most out of your studies.

Make your revision active

One of the biggest mistakes students make is relying on passive revision, like re-reading notes or highlighting textbooks.

Instead, try more active techniques:

• Test yourself without looking at your notes
• Use flashcards or quick quizzes
• Explain topics out loud as if you’re teaching someone else

These methods help strengthen memory and make it easier to recall information in an exam.

Practice with past papers

Past papers are one of the most effective ways to prepare for exams.

They help you:

• Get familiar with question styles
• Understand how marks are awarded
• Build confidence under timed conditions

Don’t worry if you don’t get everything right straight away or don’t feel ready to sit an exam. The key is trying again and learning from mistakes.

Create a routine that works for you

Consistency is more effective than last-minute cramming.

Short, focused revision sessions with regular breaks can improve concentration and prevent burnout. Try to:

• Rotate between subjects
• Spend more time on topics you find challenging
• Build revision into your daily routine

Make your environment work for you

Your surroundings can have a big impact on how well you focus.

• Keep your workspace clear and organised
• Use music or background noise if it helps you concentrate
• Choose a space where you can work without distractions

Pairing revision with something positive, like a favourite drink, snack or a comfortable setup, can also help you stay motivated.

Use the support available

At Keighley College, there’s a range of support to help you succeed.

Booster sessions, revision workshops and tutor support can:

• Help you understand difficult topics
• Improve your exam technique
• Build your confidence

Don’t be afraid to ask for help: it’s one of the best ways to improve.

Look after your wellbeing

Taking care of yourself is just as important as revising.

Make sure you:

• Get enough sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Take regular breaks

Exam season can feel challenging, but with the right approach and support from Keighley College, you can go into your assessments feeling prepared and confident.

Good luck to everyone who is preparing for exam season- you’ve got this. 

The Principal of Keighley College has praised the contribution students have made to their local community – while congratulating their academic achievements.

Despite the difficulties posed by the pandemic the college has just enjoyed another successful set of Level 3 and GCSE results, with many students meeting or exceeding their target grades.

Principal Steve Kelly said he was full of admiration for the extra effort that students and staff had put in over a trying 12 months, and their sense of social responsibility.

Achievement in the face of adversity

He said: “This year has been extremely challenging for all students across the country, as well as for those who teach and support them.

“We are very proud of our students and over the past year they have not only completed their studies but helped in their local communities, as well as with their families. 

“I am pleased to say students at Keighley College have been able to gain their vocational qualifications and progress to university, further study or employment. Many have also decided to apply for apprenticeship opportunities in the region.

“The college is open for enquiries and we still have places for anyone wishing to enrol on our courses which start next month and include full-time vocational courses, T Levels, A levels and part-time study.

“We are here to help and would encourage anyone who has questions to contact us by calling 01535 685000, emailing enquiries@keighleycollege.ac.uk or visiting keighleycollege.ac.uk.”

Inspirational husband and wife team

There were many inspirational stories behind the grades achieved by Keighley College students, and especially adult learners, this year. 

Husband and wife Chris and Laura Smith both started at the college after initially being turned down for the Access to Higher Education – Health Science Professions course, as neither had the required GCSE grades for English or maths.

The Head of Service Professions, Kevin Burke, decided to take a chance and offered them each a place anyway. His belief in them was proved well founded as they both went on to work ‘tirelessly’ and pass the course, while also achieving Grade 5s in English and Maths.

Those achievements were all the more remarkable given the fact that Laura and Chris were both holding down a job while studying. They have now each been offered a place at Bradford University, where they will study Nursing.

Overcoming the challenges of dyslexia

Adult learner Katy Currell, meanwhile, has been struggling with the educational challenges of dyslexia for years.

Until recently trying to read longer pieces of text or to write represented a huge challenge to Katy. But that has now, thanks to ‘incredibly hard work’ on her part and specialist support from her English teacher, all changed.

Katy has just achieved a Grade 4 pass in her English Language GCSE, and her teachers also say  they have seen her self-confidence grow steadily as she has progressed.

The Principal of Keighley College has praised the contribution students have made to their local community – while congratulating their academic achievements.

Despite the difficulties posed by the pandemic the college has just enjoyed another successful set of Level 3 and GCSE results, with many students meeting or exceeding their target grades.

Principal Steve Kelly said he was full of admiration for the extra effort that students and staff had put in over a trying 12 months, and their sense of social responsibility.

Achievement in the face of adversity

He said: “This year has been extremely challenging for all students across the country, as well as for those who teach and support them.

“We are very proud of our students and over the past year they have not only completed their studies but helped in their local communities, as well as with their families. 

“I am pleased to say students at Keighley College have been able to gain their vocational qualifications and progress to university, further study or employment. Many have also decided to apply for apprenticeship opportunities in the region.

“The college is open for enquiries and we still have places for anyone wishing to enrol on our courses which start next month and include full-time vocational courses, T Levels, A levels and part-time study.

“We are here to help and would encourage anyone who has questions to contact us by calling 01535 685000, emailing enquiries@keighleycollege.ac.uk or visiting keighleycollege.ac.uk.”

Inspirational husband and wife team

There were many inspirational stories behind the grades achieved by Keighley College students, and especially adult learners, this year. 

Husband and wife Chris and Laura Smith both started at the college after initially being turned down for the Access to Higher Education – Health Science Professions course, as neither had the required GCSE grades for English or maths.

The Head of Service Professions, Kevin Burke, decided to take a chance and offered them each a place anyway. His belief in them was proved well founded as they both went on to work ‘tirelessly’ and pass the course, while also achieving Grade 5s in English and Maths.

Those achievements were all the more remarkable given the fact that Laura and Chris were both holding down a job while studying. They have now each been offered a place at Bradford University, where they will study Nursing.

Overcoming the challenges of dyslexia

Adult learner Katy Currell, meanwhile, has been struggling with the educational challenges of dyslexia for years.

Until recently trying to read longer pieces of text or to write represented a huge challenge to Katy. But that has now, thanks to ‘incredibly hard work’ on her part and specialist support from her English teacher, all changed.

Katy has just achieved a Grade 4 pass in her English Language GCSE, and her teachers also say  they have seen her self-confidence grow steadily as she has progressed.