Make Your Summer Count

GCSEs and A Levels are finally behind you – deep breath, it's done! Whether you’re feeling elated, exhausted, or somewhere in between, one thing is certain, summer has officially arrived. And after months of revision, stress, and late-night cramming, you deserve a break. But how do you make the most of it without completely losing your rhythm?

Check out these top tips to help you enjoy your summer to the fullest.

⏰ Don’t Ditch Your Routine Entirely

After the structure of school and revision timetables, it’s tempting to sleep in until noon and spend all day glued to TikTok. But trust us – your future self will thank you for keeping some kind of daily structure.

Try this:

• Wake up at a consistent time (even if it’s not 7am – 9 or 10 is fine!)
• Plan your day loosely – a few fun things, a few productive ones
• Keep moving – even a walk or quick workout helps your mental health

Keeping a light routine helps avoid the summer slump and makes the transition to college, sixth form or uni life much easier come September.

🛼 Try Something New

Now’s the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone. You’ve got a window of freedom – no deadlines, no lessons, no pressure. Why not use it?

• Take up a hobby – photography, cooking, coding, or even skateboarding
• Join a class or workshop – from art to martial arts
• Volunteer – great for your CV and for giving back to your community

You never know what skills or passions you might discover when you try something different.

☕️ Make Time for Friends (and Yourself)

Reconnect with friends you may not have seen very much during exam season. Plan group outings, picnics, beach days or even just chill movie nights. Real-life connections (not just Snapchat streaks) are great for your wellbeing.

But also take some solo time to relax, reflect and enjoy the slower pace. Journaling, reading, or even just a solo trip to a café!

📝 Get Ready for What’s Next

You don’t need to be in full-on prep mode, but doing a little now can make things smoother later.

• Research your next steps – whether that’s college, sixth form, apprenticeships, or uni
• Do some prep if you're starting a new course in September
• Explore part-time jobs or work experience to earn some cash and boost your CV

A little planning now = less stress in the autumn.

5. Look After Your Mental Health

Exams can take a toll – and so can suddenly not having exams. If you’re feeling anxious, low, or just flat, you’re not alone.

• Talk to someone – a mate, family member or professional
• Stay active and get outside – fresh air does wonders
• Limit doom-scrolling – social media is great, but too much isn’t

Your mental health matters just as much as your exam results.

This summer doesn’t have to be packed or perfect – it just needs to be yours. Strike a balance between rest, fun, and growth. You’ve worked hard, now take this chance to recharge and rediscover what makes you you – not just a student, but a person with passions, potential and a world of opportunities ahead.

Have an amazing summer! ☀️

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