While the majority of UK pupils celebrate a well-deserved two week opportunity to rest, following the exasperating winter term, sixth form students at The Ursuline Academy Ilford will be greeted with mock exams of significant importance on arrival of the New Year.

Students have received mixed messages regarding the importance of these examinations as some claim the mocks are only a necessary indicator of progress, while the choice of words used for the title on the timetable handout, which boasts a sizeable sixteen exams over the course of seven days, suggests otherwise. The title reading ‘YEAR 12 QUALIFICATION FOR ENTRY TO GCE A LEVEL EXAMS – JANUARY 2017’ has caused confusion as it has left many students fearing removal from their chosen courses if they under perform, this is a concern addressed by year 12 pupil Mahnoor saying ‘I’m scared I just really need to do well’.

Despite the coming of mocks, one arguable benefit of their dreaded arrival is an extended ‘holiday’ as Ursuline sixth formers can enjoy a departure from their usual school day routines lasting until January 13th. This runs simultaneously with examinations throughout their duration as it is in the best interest of students and teachers as far as convenience and undisturbed lesson attendance is concerned.

As a final thought, while you enjoy your seasonal celebrations and bask in the excitement of joyful family gatherings, be sure to keep the Ursuline girls in mind as they continue to study in preparation for the most significant examinations of their courses to date. 


Serena Roberts Lawson, Ursuline Academy Ilford