GCSE mocks preparation
6 min read · updated 2026-09-23
Autumn mocks set predicted grades and expose gaps early. Treat them like dress rehearsals for the real summer papers, not a surprise test.
Start with the exam board
AQA, Edexcel and OCR papers reward different styles. Tutoring and past-paper practice must match your child's school board and tier.
Hours per subject
A Standard GCSE subject package is about 20 tutoring hours across a term. Maths and the sciences usually need that sooner than option subjects. Spread sessions weekly; cramming the week before mocks rarely moves grade boundaries.
What parents should see
A marked past paper every 2-3 weeks, a short written note on the next focus, and a clear target grade for the real exam. If mocks go badly, use the feedback to reshape the spring plan rather than panic alone.
FAQs
Should we tutor every GCSE subject?＋
Usually no. Prioritise maths, English and any subject below the sixth-form entry grade you need.
When do summer GCSE exams happen?＋
Main written exams run in May-June. Autumn mocks are the early warning system, not the final grade.
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