Balance during examinations

As the girls approach their end-of-year examination period, we will be reminding them in their pastoral sessions about the importance of planning their time well as they prepare so that they have a good balance between work and rest. The cocurricular program will continue to run during this period as we believe it is important for the girls to keep moving their bodies and using their minds to create, perform and bring balance to their revision.

We encourage the girls to set up their study space well by removing distractions and taking regular breaks to get a drink, eat, play with a pet, have a conversation with a family member or go outside and get some fresh air.

Sleep is also vital for the girls during this period. The girls may be tempted to study late into the night, but, in our experience, less sleep only compounds any feelings of anxiety and leads to poorer performance in the examinations.

Finally, at Meriden, we encourage the girls to remember that examinations are an opportunity for them to show what they know and to keep them in perspective. They should try their best but have a long view of their schooling, knowing that these examinations are but one building block in a long journey of their formation.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Camps

This term, we are looking forward to the return of camp for students in Years 8 and 9. The Year 8 Challenge Camp and the Year 9 Service Camps in Week 5 will provide a wonderful opportunity for the girls to step outside their usual routine into nature and grow in their knowledge of the world and themselves. In Week 8, Year 7 students will have their second Friendship Day, which was rescheduled due to La Niña in Term 1!

Often at Year 12 Graduations, students reflect on the memories they made on a school camp. These camps are a wonderful opportunity for girls to develop their social skills, meet other students, disconnect with technology, learn new practical and physical skills, and develop independence.

In the lead-up to camp, please encourage your daughter to make the most of the opportunity; to step outside her comfort zone and meet new people and try something new. If your daughter is apprehensive about going on camp, help her to focus on the positives and what she might learn about herself and others on this camp.

More information about these camps will be distributed to parents in the coming week by Year Coordinators and Mr Richard Hughes, Dean of Student Involvement.