Final GCSE Examination and Leavers’ Assembly

The final GCSE examination for Year 11 pupils will take place on Tuesday 16 June at 9.00am. Further details regarding arrangements for this day will be shared closer to the time.

Following the final examination, all Year 11 pupils will be invited into school to attend the Year 11 Leavers’ Assembly. This will provide an opportunity for pupils and staff to come together as a year group to celebrate achievements and mark the completion of compulsory schooling.

GCSE Examination Contingency Day

Families are reminded that the national GCSE examination contingency day is Wednesday 24 June. All pupils must remain available up to and including this date, as exams may need to be rescheduled if issues arise nationally. This should be considered carefully when planning holidays.

Timetable and Study Arrangements

Year 11 pupils will remain in school throughout the examination period, as experience shows this approach provides the strongest academic outcomes through access to structured support from staff.

Timetables will be adapted as examinations progress to ensure time is used effectively. Weekly timetables will be shared with pupils and parents/carers in due course. Adjustments may include:

  • Breakfast and form‑time revision sessions ahead of morning examinations
  • Targeted Period 6 sessions focusing on upcoming examinations
  • Period 3 lessons following morning examinations used for mastery sessions and focused revision

These arrangements are designed to support learning while helping to reduce exam‑related anxiety.

Non‑Uniform and Wellbeing Support

From Monday 11 May, Year 11 pupils will be permitted to wear non‑school uniform to promote comfort and wellbeing during the examination period.

To support safeguarding procedures, pupils will be issued with a coloured lanyard, which must be worn at all times, similar to Sixth Form arrangements. The school is also exploring the option of providing Year‑11‑only spaces at lunchtime to maintain a calm and supportive environment ahead of afternoon examinations.

Supporting Our Pupils

The GCSE period can be challenging for young people, and the school appreciates the ongoing support provided by families. By working together, we aim to help all pupils approach their examinations with confidence and resilience.

Should parents or carers have any questions, please contact the school directly for further information.