VLE
Get enough sleep. Doctors recommend that students of Middle Department age should sleep for at least ten hours each night. Upper Department students should sleep for at least nine hours each night and Sixth Form students should get at least eight hours’ sleep. Being underslept causes poor concentration, reduced memory, behaviour issues and mood problems. BBC article on sleep deprivation.
Drink plenty of water. Becoming dehydrated can cause headaches, confusion and dizziness. Dehydration also prevents you from learning effectively. Water is the best drink to hydrate your body. Students are encouraged to take water bottles into lessons. Avoid sugary drinks.
Don’t skip meals. A good breakfast is very important, but so are lunch and dinner. Skipping meals causes problems with your blood sugar levels and may make you want to eat unhealthy snacks at the wrong times. With good eating habits, you will have the energy to learn effectively.
Eat a balanced diet. Eat lots of brown bread, brown rice, fruit and vegetables. Eat some meat, fish, eggs, beans and dairy products. Try to eat very few fatty or sugary foods. A properly balanced diet will keep you healthier, give you more energy and help you learn.
Get enough exercise. Exercising reduces stress, keeps your digestion working properly and makes you feel more energetic. It also helps you get a good night’s sleep and stay a healthy weight. Walk, jog, run or swim. Do what you enjoy and what feels comfortable.
Stay safe. If you have an accident and are absent from school, it can seriously affect your studies. Do not take unnecessary safety risks. In particular, sit in the back seat of your car, always wear your seatbelt and do not allow whoever is driving you to behave recklessly.
Don't fall victim to stress. If something is worrying you, talk about it with an adult you trust. In school, your Class Tutor or Department Coordinator will be particularly keen to try and help you.