Hear from Hazel – A Success Story

Meet Hazel. One of SmartX’s incredible GCSE success stories! When she first joined SmartX in Year 10, Hazel lacked confidence and motivation – but through consistent effort, guidance and structured study habits, she completely transformed her approach to learning.

She went for getting Grade 3’s and Grades 4s in her subjects to achieving outstanding results:

Grade 9 in Maths
Grade 9 in Physics
Grade 9 in Chemistry
Grade 9 in Biology
Grade 9 in English Literature
Grade 8 in English Language
Grade 9 in Computing
Grade 8 in German
Grade 8 in Textiles

This is exactly how to get Grade 9’s in GCSEs!

How did you feel before starting SmartX Tutoring?

I started SmartX Tutoring in Year 10. Before that, I felt that I wasn’t very good at independent studies and constantly saw myself disappointed and unmotivated to study. I honestly thought I would be failing all my GCSEs. My teachers had predicted that I would get 3s and 4s in my subjects.

However, since the first 6-Sessions, I saw an increase in my confidence and I noticed a difference in school. I was answering questions more, and I was gradually getting higher and higher marks everywhere!

What was your general study routine like in Year 10 and Year 11?

In Year 10, I tried to study but ended up giving in to procrastination and endless scrolling on phones. But after tuitions and in Year 11, I had a much more structured day and set time to study. In half-term holidays, as I had a long time during the day, it was easier to keep a set time aside for revision or question practice.

How do you balance schoolwork, revision, and personal time?

Consistent but small doses of revision. I kept myself accountable to a minimum of 1 hour a day not including tuitions. I tried to time my study with the amount of tasks completing but that didn’t help.

Which subjects did you find the easiest and the most challenging?

Originally, I found Science really challenging, but from my tutor I learnt that if I use the markscheme to get the keywords that they want me to use, then the examiner will be compelled to give me the marks. It got so much easier after that!

What kind of revision methods worked best for you?

For Maths, it was honestly just doing practice papers over and over again. I had learnt to use a different pen when marking and then go and do tons of practice questions on that topic, comeback do a different paper and rinse and repeat!

For Science, the support I received one-to-one from my tutor really helped. I don’t think I would’ve got 9s without that at all. Past Papers and new and different revision techniques pushed me to get that top grade.

Additionally, the WhatsApp group chat was a game-changer, as I could ask questions whenever I needed help, and my tutor would reply almost instantly!

Have you ever experienced burnout or self-doubt? How did you overcome it?

During the summer, I felt extremely burned out. I was working a lot of hours with tuition on top. My tutor helped me understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle in terms of exercise, social interactions, and academic study. After I set time apart for each, it really de-stressed me.

What is your best piece of advice for someone starting in Year 10 or 11 now?

Just START

Any Revision is better than no revision. Start with just a minimum of half an hour a day to build up consistency then increase it as you get closer to the exams.

SmartX Tutors helped me a lot in making my own revision schedule and how to stick to it too!

How did you feel when you opened your results?

Shocked and very surprised but so so so happy! I’m back with SmartX for my A Levels now!

SmartX tutors are more than just tutors; they are also mentors. We will help your child in both their academics and their journey. Book a free consultation call to see how we can guide your child to confidence!