The cherry blossom is out and Easter is just around the corner, so if you’re a parent or student gearing up for the GCSEs, you might be feeling the pressure of balancing revision with holiday fun. But don't worry – with the right strategy, the Easter break can be an ideal time to power up your study routine while still enjoying some well-earned rest.
Here are some practical and friendly tips to help you or your child get the most out of Easter GCSE revision, all while keeping stress levels in check.
1. Start with a Plan
The first step is always the hardest, but creating a plan can make all the difference. It doesn't need to be a rigid schedule, but something flexible and achievable. The Easter break is two weeks long, so aim to break down the revision into manageable chunks.
Tip: Try using a simple revision timetable. Divide the time between subjects based on difficulty and priority – giving extra time to the subjects or topics that are more challenging. Be realistic about how long your child can focus each day. A good rule of thumb is around 2-3 hours per day, with breaks in between!
2. Mix It Up with Active Revision
Revision doesn’t have to mean sitting in silence with a textbook for hours on end. Active revision techniques, such as creating flashcards, using revision apps, or recording your own voice summarising key concepts, are great ways to keep the brain engaged.
Tip: For students who love tech, try apps like Quizlet, which allows you to create digital flashcards, or use websites like BBC Bitesize to revise in bite-sized chunks. YouTube also offers tonnes of helpful revision videos – just be careful to avoid falling into the "YouTube rabbit hole"!
3. Take Regular Breaks
It might sound counterintuitive, but taking breaks can actually help your child retain information better. A 25-minute study session followed by a 5-minute break is a tried-and-tested method (called the Pomodoro Technique). After four sessions, take a longer break of 30 minutes to recharge.
Tip: Encourage your child to go for a quick walk, stretch, or do something non-study related during these breaks. This gives the brain a chance to rest and absorb the information more effectively.
4. Stay Positive and Keep It Fun
We all know that revision can sometimes feel like a drag, especially over a holiday. But a positive attitude can make all the difference. Celebrate small wins, like completing a set of practice questions or mastering a tricky topic. Make it fun, and try to link subjects to real-life examples to help them make sense.
Tip: Set up a mini "prize" system at home where your child earns small rewards for meeting their revision goals (e.g., a treat, a bit of free time, or a family movie night). Positive reinforcement can help keep spirits high during revision.
5. Mix in Some Past Papers
Past papers are one of the best tools for exam preparation. They give students a feel for the format of the exam, the types of questions to expect, and the pacing they need to work on.
Tip: Practice a past paper under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience. Afterward, review the answers and focus on any areas where mistakes were made. Don’t forget that marking schemes are a goldmine for understanding what examiners are looking for!
6. Get the Family Involved
Revision doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Parents can get involved by quizzing their child, helping to create flashcards, or even doing fun quizzes based on the subjects. Just make sure it doesn’t feel too much like a test!
Tip: Make it a family challenge – parents can join in and revise with their child for some subjects (or even offer to learn something new!). The idea is to make it a collaborative effort so that everyone feels supported.
7. Don’t Forget to Rest
While it’s essential to put in the hours, it’s just as important to rest. Easter is still a holiday, after all! Students should aim for a balanced approach that includes downtime and family activities. Too much pressure can lead to burnout.
Tip: Ensure there’s time for family outings, sports, or just chilling with a book. Sleep is crucial, so encourage a good night’s sleep to help the brain absorb what’s been studied.
8. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
It’s easy to skip meals or get into unhealthy snacking habits when revising. But proper nutrition and hydration are key for focus and concentration. Encourage healthy, brain-boosting snacks like nuts, fruit, and whole grains.
Tip: Keep water bottles handy – hydration helps with focus and overall energy. A healthy lunch break with the family can also provide a much-needed mental reset during the day.
9. Ask for Help if Needed
Sometimes, despite all the planning and hard work, certain topics just aren’t clicking. Encourage your child to reach out for extra support, whether that’s through a teacher, a tutor, or even online resources like YouTube tutorials.
Tip: If there’s a specific topic that needs more attention, break it down into smaller parts and work through it step by step. Asking for help doesn’t mean failure – it’s a smart way to tackle tough subjects.
10. Focus on Wellbeing
Lastly, remember that mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as academic success. Stress is a common part of exam season, but it doesn’t have to take over. Encourage your child to talk about any worries they may have, and find relaxation techniques that help.
Tip: Meditation apps like Headspace or simple breathing exercises can help calm nerves and build confidence. A positive mindset is key to success.
11. Consider Booking Tuition for Extra Support
Sometimes, despite all the planning and hard work, your child might need a little extra help to truly grasp a topic. This is where tuition can make a big difference. Whether it’s one-to-one support or a group session, a tutor can provide tailored guidance, boost confidence, and ensure your child is fully prepared for the exams.
We are running intensive GCSE Easter Revision Boosters for Maths, Science and English Language over the holidays between the 7th-11th of April 2025 for only £20+VAT per hour. Book now to give your child's revision and confidence a boost!
We are running intensive GCSE Easter Revision Boosters for Maths, Science and English Language over the holidays between the 7th-11th of April 2025 for only £20+VAT per hour. Book now to give your child's revision and confidence a boost!
Tip: At Capital Tuition Group, we also offer both one-to-one and group GCSE tuition throughout the year with qualified, experienced teachers who can help your child focus on their individual needs. A tutor can provide that extra boost of motivation and expertise, helping your child tackle any tricky areas they might be struggling with. Booking a few sessions during the Easter break can be a game-changer when it comes to getting exam-ready.
Final Thoughts
The Easter break doesn’t have to be all about revising 24/7. With the right balance of study, rest, and family time, your child can come out of the holiday feeling both refreshed and well-prepared. Remember, a calm, positive approach to revision is just as important as hitting the books hard.
Happy revising – and may the Easter holidays bring both relaxation and success!
