End of Semester 2: Important Updates for Families

As we near the conclusion of the school year, we want to ensure that families are well-informed about the upcoming assessments, exams, and reporting for students in Years 7 to 11. This is an important time for students to showcase their growth, prepare for future studies, and build confidence in their academic journey.

Assessments and Feedback
All in-class assessment tasks for Semester 2 will be completed by Friday 22 November. Shortly after, you’ll be able to access your child’s results and feedback on PAM. These assessments not only evaluate students' learning progress but also provide valuable insights to help them develop critical skills for their future studies.

Examination Schedule for Years 9 and 10
Students in Years 9 and 10 will have exams scheduled in Maths, English, Science, and Humanities, while exams in other subjects will take place during class time. The main exam period runs from Monday 25 November to Wednesday 27 November. We will send the full exam timetable to families soon so that you and your child can plan and prepare.

Support for Students with Diverse Needs
To ensure all students can perform to their best abilities, those with diverse learning needs will receive accommodations as outlined in their Personal Learning Plans. These may include extra time, rest breaks, or assistive devices. Leaders from the Student Growth and Engagement Team will email students about the available provisions, so please remind your child to check their emails regularly. Students who receive special provisions will meet at a designated location before each exam, where a supervising teacher will escort them to their exam venue.

PAT Testing for Years 7–10
PAT Testing will be conducted for all students in Years 7 to 10 from Friday, 29th November to Monday, 2nd December. This annual assessment provides valuable data on each student’s literacy and numeracy skills, helping teachers understand and address individual learning needs. Here are a few reminders:

• Preparation: PAT Testing does not require study, as it assesses general skills rather than specific content.
• Device Readiness: Please make sure your child’s computer is fully charged the night before the test.
• Room and Timing Information: Students will receive details via email, so encourage them to check their emails regularly for updates.

Information for Year 11 Students
Year 11 exams will be held at the Damascus Events Centre unless otherwise specified. Students are expected to be on campus for all exams and should sign in and out at the office if they need to leave during the school day. Those with special provisions will meet in front of the DEC before each exam, where they will be escorted to their designated venue by a supervising teacher.

Tips for Effective Revision
Creating a positive study environment at home can make a real difference during this time. Here are some ways you can support your child’s revision:

• Establish a Routine: A structured routine with regular breaks can help your child stay focused and organised.
• Minimize Distractions: Setting up a quiet, distraction-free study area can boost concentration.
• Engage in Discussions: Talking about their studies and asking questions can enhance understanding and confidence.

To help students stay on track, revision week will begin the week before exams. In addition to in-class revision, students should dedicate time at home to review notes, textbooks, and any additional materials provided by teachers.

Semester 2 Reports
Semester 2 reports will be available on PAM from Friday 6 December. These reports will provide a comprehensive assessment of your child’s progress, including their performance in both exams and in-class assessment tasks.

Staying Connected
If you have questions or concerns about the assessment period, please feel free to reach out to your child’s subject teacher or Teacher Advisor. PAM will also be regularly updated with important information.

We appreciate your support in creating a positive learning environment for your child. Wishing all our students the very best for their assessments and encouraging them to approach this time with confidence and a growth mindset.