Julia reflects on GCSE success and Sixth Form at Sedbergh

Julia’s time at Sedbergh began at Casterton, our Prep campus, before she moved into the Senior School in Year 9. Now a member of Lupton House, and sister of new Head of School Daisy, Julia has achieved an outstanding set of GCSE results. She reflects on the study habits, support and extracurricular activities that helped her through Years 10 and 11, and looks ahead to Sixth Form, where she plans to study Maths, Psychology, Chemistry and Geography.

How did you feel when you saw your GCSE results?

When I saw my GCSE results, I was really happy with how I did, and I was relieved to see that all the hard work had paid off.

What helped you most with your studies and revision during your GCSE years?

I would say that having teachers in House who were able to help during prep time and free time was really useful, especially for subjects such as Music and Chemistry. It was also helpful being in a room with another pupil during prep, as I find that body doubling is an effective revision strategy for me and helps me to stay focused.

What would be your best piece of advice for a pupil starting their GCSE course?

I would say that the best piece of advice for a pupil starting their GCSE course would be to begin as early as possible, as it is always better to do little and often rather than trying to cram the whole syllabus closer to the finish line.

What subjects are you planning to study in Sixth Form?

At the moment, I am signed up for Maths, Psychology, Chemistry and Geography for Sixth Form, and I think it will be interesting to study fewer subjects in more depth. I would like to keep my options open by studying a mix of humanities and sciences.

Is there a subject you are particularly looking forward to studying?

I’m excited to study Psychology in Sixth Form, as I think it will be interesting to try a subject that is completely new. Both my siblings have studied Psychology, and it seems like it has a really fascinating curriculum.

How did extracurricular activities fit alongside your GCSE studies?

During Years 10 and 11, I took part in quite a lot of extracurricular activities, such as sport and music. It was a really good way to have a break from revision and academia while still being productive. It was also an effective way to clear my mind, and it’s something I would definitely recommend doing.

Were there any members of staff who particularly supported you during your GCSE years?

My Housemistress and Chemistry teacher, Mrs Macdonald, was brilliant throughout the GCSE years, offering advice and specific support, including taking time out of her holidays and weekends in order to help us. Also, Mr Norman was fantastic in helping with the technical side of Music GCSE, explaining to us the new technology we were required to use when composing music.

Do you have any ideas yet about what you might like to do after Sedbergh?

Although I am not sure yet specifically what I would like to do after I leave Sedbergh, I would be keen to go to university, and I will hopefully discover where and what I would like to do during my time in Sixth Form at Sedbergh.

What are you most looking forward to about Sixth Form?

I’m looking forward to all the new and different opportunities, including events such as the Wilson Run, that will arise alongside being in one of the older years of the School.