News

2026 GCSE Exams: Everything You Need to Know

14 Apr 2026
student studying in elevate

We know exam season can be stressful, but don’t worry we’ve got your back!
Here you can find all exam-related information as well as support options to help you feel prepared and confident.

Upcoming Exam Dates

Make a note in your phone or write them down so you don’t forget:

Maths Paper 1 – Thursday 14th May | 9am Start
English Paper 1 – Thursday 21st May | 9am Start
Maths Paper 2 – Wednesday 3rd June | 9am Start
English Paper 2 – Friday 5th June | 9am Start
Maths Paper 3 (Adult and 14+ College Students only) – Wednesday 10th June | 9am Start

Top Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early (by 8:30am) so you can get settled and ready to go.

Free Breakfast on Exam Days

We want you to feel fuelled, focused, and ready to succeed on exam days, so breakfast is on us!

Breakfast is served from 7:30am, so all students with an exam can grab something to eat from the Horncastle Café at our Queen’s Gardens campus, or the Pit Stop at our Cannon Street site.

Wellbeing Fair – Wednesday 22nd April

Come along to Hullywood Gardens on Wednesday 22nd April (10am – 2pm) and meet various service providers, who can give you tips on how to manage exam-related stress and anxiety.

We encourage you to ask questions, get informed, and learn some techniques, so you can manage these emotions well.

Tips for Exam Success

Create a Revision Plan: Break topics into smaller chunks and test yourself. This will help you to focus on the core concepts and high impact topics first.

Look After Yourself: Eat well, stay hydrated, exercise, and get enough sleep – it will help you stay calm, focused, and ready.

Ask for Help: Your tutors and our Student Support team are always available to answer any questions or offer any guidance you may need.

Stay Positive: You’ve worked hard – believe in yourself and show what you’ve learned!

Exam Day Checklist

Be Prepared: Pack everything the night before: black pens, pencils, calculator, clear water bottle, and your student ID.

Arrive Early: Grab your free breakfast and settle in.

Check Your Exam Room: You may not be in the same room for every exam. Check the student app or boards outside Student Services.

Listen to Instructions: Invigilators will guide you through the exam process.

Try Your Best: Take a deep breath, stay focused, and give it your all.

We’ve Got Your Back

Whether it’s help with revision or just some extra support, our tutors and support staff are always here for you. Don’t hesitate to ask for help whenever you need it.

Wishing you all the very best of luck in your exams – we know you’ll be great!