Category: Advice for Parents
Kirsty Macfarlane 
18.08.17What Should Pupils Do If They Fail Their GCSEs?
With exam results rapidly approaching, the next week is sure to be a stressful time for pupils who have recently taken their GCSEs. However, failing an exam is not the end of the world. There are many options available to students if they don’t obtain their desired marks. Talk to the school The first step … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 16.08.17Everything You Need To Know About The New GSCE Results
It is estimated that the Government has spent nearly £400,000 on publicising the new GCSE system. However, there is still confusion as to exactly what these changes are and the impact that they will have on pupils who are waiting to receive exam results next week. Read on for answers to common questions that parents … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 09.08.17Do You Know A Child That Suffers From Maths Anxiety?
What is maths anxiety? “I hate maths!” is not an uncommon sentiment to hear in any classroom. However, studies have shown that maths anxiety is a real condition that goes far beyond pupils simply not enjoying working with numbers. Defined by Mark Ashcraft as “a feeling of tension, apprehension, or fear that interferes with math … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 04.08.17Ways To Encourage Children To Learn Over The Summer
A survey carried out last June by Explore Learning revealed that, of the 2,000 parents interviewed, 74% believed that their children’s academic abilities had declined over the summer holidays. 21% also felt that their child was less engaged in their studies when they did return to school. It is important to encourage children to continuously … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 28.07.17Cheap and Free Family Days Out
With the majority of UK schools now closed for at least 6 weeks, it can be hard to think of fun activities to fill all of the new-found free time, especially when you’re on a budget. Don’t worry though, we’ve compiled a list of fun activities and outings that won’t break the bank and will … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 28.07.17How To Help Your Child Make Friends
There are many benefits to children forming strong friendships. It has been shown that children who have a lot of friends are more confident, have higher self esteem and demonstrate a greater belief in their own abilities. Playing with friends also allows children to develop leadership qualities, improve their imagination and helps them to develop … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 12.07.17How Can Teachers Encourage Reluctant Writers?
A recent study by the National Trust Literacy has suggested that children who write for pleasure produce class work that is seven times better than the expected level for their age group. However, the same research indicates that, while enthusiasm for writing has risen since 2015, 45% of pupils don’t actually enjoy writing in their … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 12.06.1710 Ways To Relieve Exam Stress
With reports indicating that pupils worry more about exam results than they did several years ago, it’s no secret that this time of year can be very stressful for students. Recent research has suggested that rosemary can enhance memory skills, however we’ve put together a list of slightly more practical tips to relieve exam anxiety! … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 26.05.17Introducing DEKKO COMICS!
Connect are delighted to introduce the latest addition to our online shop: Dekko Comics – a series of comics designed to teach children Maths, English and other curriculum subjects through fun characters and stories. Rossie Stone founded Dekko Comics to share a technique that helped him to achieve excellent marks in his exams … Continued
Kirsty Macfarlane 11.05.17The Importance Of Mental Health Awareness Week
Mental Health Awareness Week was introduced 17 years ago by The Mental Health Foundation and continues to highlight the importance of good mental health. However, a recent report by the Education and Health Committees has found that mental health support for children in schools is lacking. The report discusses how, despite an increasing number of children … Continued
