For the first time in most of our lives, the schools, colleges and universities are all closed. In this blog, we will look at what you can do to maximise your home learning and make this time as easy as possible.
For every student, you are working towards a goal. Whether that is an apprenticeship placement, a university place or that dream job – it’s important to stay focused. The trick is not to lose motivation. The situation that we have all found ourselves in won’t last forever and by keeping on track now, you can come out of the other side and look forward to continuing with your plans.
- Stay connected! Keep up to date with all correspondence with your school/college/university, as it will make it so much easier for you to follow and complete the work that they may set you.
- Keep in touch with your school friends. People can feel lonely during this time, so chat to the people you sat with in class or even people you don’t normally talk to! By doing this, you can help each other with the work that has been set.
- Stick to a regular routine. Even those of us in work are trying our best with this tip! This morning, I was up and dressed and sat at my new work station at the same time as I would normally. I had breakfast and lunch at my usual time. Keeping to your regular routine will keep a sense of normality and allow you to start and finish at your typical times every day.
- Create work and home boundaries. If you have your own desk, clear everything off it and have it as your home school space. If you don’t, set up a learning area away from distractions. Keep this space away from your bed or places where you normally relax. This creates a boundary between your ‘work’ life and your ‘home’ life, and allows you to make that productive connection when you sit down in your learning space to begin work for the day.
If you’re in Year 11 or 13, you’ve just found yourself finishing the year much quicker than anyone thought. It might seem a little bit uncertain, but remember that every Year 11 or 13 is in the same boat. It is important to keep in contact with your school. They may be setting work, which will be for a reason – not just to give you extra homework! It will be designed to help you and your future.
Due to start an apprenticeship or T-level? You have the prime opportunity to prepare and research what you might be doing. Get a head start! You can use Careerpilot and see what a day in the job will be like or connect with people online who work in the industry. Researching some of the basics now will mean that you can make a great first impression when you start.
Starting an A-Level or BTEC? Get researching about your course. Learn the basics and do some background reading. Continuing with even a little bit of studying now will make your transition to your next course so much easier.
We’ve all heard the question ‘Do you remember where you were when…?’
We are living through one of those times, right now. This is a unique time where you are in control of your learning. It is a fantastic opportunity for you to practise your independent learning skills and more. You could learn new skills, read more or research your dream career.
This period of time will end, and in the future you will be asked ‘What did you do that time they closed the schools?’
What will you be able to answer? Make it something good!