An Exam Survival Guide for Somerset West Students (And Parents)
It’s almost that time again, Somerset West: exam season. With matric prelims already in full swing and finals just around the corner, households across the Helderberg basin are feeling the pressure rise. Whether it’s late-night cramming, calculator batteries giving up at the worst of times, or nerves going haywire before walking into the exam hall, we can all relate.
Having recently welcomed Master Maths Somerset West as a Village Collective partner, we thought we would speak to the experts on your behalf. This exam season, they’re sharing some practical tips every parent can pass on to their high schoolers, but especially their matric learners facing finals.
Ten Top Tips to Support Your Teen Through The Exam Season
Plan it out
A timetable is a lifesaver. Even if your teen hasn’t made one yet, it’s never too late. A bit of structure helps reduce stress and turns mountain-sized workloads into manageable hills.Practice makes calm
Past papers aren’t optional, they’re essential. Encourage your teen to tackle at least one or two in preparation, simulating exam circumstances as best they can. This builds familiarity with question styles and sharpens time management.Study smart, not slouched
Set them up at a desk, in a quiet, well-lit space. Lying on the bed with loud music won’t cut it. Good posture, good light, good results.Balance focus with breaks
Brains need rest. Suggest 30 minutes of fresh air or light exercise between sessions – a walk, swim, or cycle can boost energy better than a nap.Mix it up
Switching between subjects keeps the mind fresh. Too much of one subject in a day can lead to mental fatigue and poor recall.
Hydration = concentration
Water helps the brain stay sharp. Swap the extra energy drink for a bottle of water and a handful of nuts or yoghurt.Prep the night before
Pens, calculator batteries, ID, timetable – check it all. And no cramming past 10 pm. A rested brain is a sharper brain.Exam-day calm
Breakfast is non-negotiable. Arrive early, breathe, and if needed, give friends a gentle “not now” to stay in the right headspace.Trust your training
Encourage your teen to start with the questions they know, keep their work neat, and pace themselves. Like a marathon runner saving energy for the final lap, steady confidence wins the race.Keep perspective
Stress and anxiety are normal, but they don’t have to take over. Talking it out, setting small goals, and even rewarding progress with a favourite series or snack helps lighten the load.
A Partner That Walks With You
Exam season can be tough on families, but learners and parents don’t have to walk it alone. Master Maths Somerset West has been working alongside local learners for 25 years, helping them break down barriers, build skills, and face exams with confidence.
If your teen needs extra support – or just that structured push to get across the finish line – pop in to Master Maths on 3 Lourensford Road and meet the team, or get in touch at 021 851 5885, 066 474 9086 (WhatsApp) or somersetwest@mastermaths.co.za. With their experience and encouragement, your child can go into the exam hall prepared, steady, and ready to succeed.
To every high schooler heading into exams, and especially the matrics writing their last school papers: take a deep breath. These next few weeks may feel like the biggest test yet, but they don’t define your whole story. Trust the work you’ve put in, look after your wellbeing, and remember that Somerset West is in your corner. You’ve got this.