As the summer exam season is almost upon us, it is crucial to focus on the factors that will significantly impact and inform your performance. As BPT Director, I have seen countless students navigate this period over the years, and I believe that there are three key factors to success: targeted preparation, effective exam technique, and – above all – confidence.
**Targeted Preparation** is your blueprint: it transcends general study and homes in on areas where you can gain the most marks. It involves analysing past papers of course, but also understanding the format and expectations of each exam and question, and focusing revision on weaker areas to ensure a well-rounded performance. BPT’s approach is to equip students with the tools to identify these key areas and devise a study plan with your tutor that is both efficient and effective. Preparation should have started some weeks or even months ago, but it is never too late, and I have always found last-minute revision invaluable, despite what you may have been told!
**Exam Technique** often separates good from top marks. It encompasses time management, understanding how to structure answers effectively, and knowing what the examiners are looking for. Technique can be improved with practice and feedback, which is why we at BPT advise regular practice papers and mock exams, as well as intensive and strategic review sessions. Success is all about maximising the marks available to you in every question.
**Confidence** is absolutely fundamental. Of course it cannot be manufactured out of thin air, but it is something that you should develop automatically on the back of the first two criteria above. Confidence is not merely about believing that you can do well, but also about knowing that you have prepared properly. Confidence is derived from familiarity with your subject matter and the realisation that you are ready to tackle whatever exam paper or question comes your way. We at BPT encourage our students to shift their perspective from wary apprehension to eager anticipation of embracing a challenge.
In fact, as students, you stand on the threshold of a real opportunity: exams are not just obstacles; they are a chance to showcase your hard work and knowledge, and build a platform for future learning opportunities and success. They are a stage on the path towards future goals, be it further education or career aspirations. Indeed I encourage everyone to seize this moment with both hands.
Let this exam season be a testament to your dedication and hard work. Embrace the opportunity, and I am confident that your efforts will be rewarded with the success that you rightly deserve.
Good luck to all our BPT students and to all others sitting exams this summer!
Yours sincerely,
Robert Finch