GCSE Headstart Session

Get a headstart on the academic year

Collection links
Location address: Barton Neighbourhood Centre, Oxford
Chosen age group:

Ages: 13 - 17 years

Available tickets:
HAF Eligible Student FreeFSM Student Swan School FreeFSM Student Oxf Academy Free +1 more
Next date: Friday 28th Aug,
Funded by Oxfordshire County Council
Universal provision with SEND support
GCSE Headstart Session block mentored by Tunnicliffe Education
A summary
A free GCSE Headstart session for students going into Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11. This session is designed to help students get back into the routine of school at the end of the summer holidays, while still enjoying a fun, informal HAF-style day. The aim is to give students a positive, confidence-building start before the new academic year begins. The day will include a mixture of activities, games, discussion, food and short GCSE-focused learning sessions in English, Maths and Science. These booster-style sessions will be practical, supportive and accessible, helping students refresh key skills and feel more prepared for September. This is not intended to feel like a full school day or an exam cramming session. Instead, it offers students a chance to ease back into learning, rebuild confidence, ask questions, and return to school feeling that they have made a strong start. Each session will include a healthy meal, time to socialise, and a balance of academic support and enjoyable activities.
send accessibility checklist
1:1 care
2:1 care
Qualified to administer medication
Epilepsy trained
Secure environment
Accessible toilet
Assist with personal care and toileting
Hoist and changing bench
Wheelchair accessible site
Autism awareness trained
Sensory or quiet spaces
Makaton trained
PECS trained
More information available on request
Contact the Mentor to discuss your specific needs regarding this list item.
Please note:
It is the responsibility of the booker to satisfy themselves about the adequacy of the the measures provided above. This platform is merely an introducer and does not verify the items listed.
About your mentor
Tunnicliffe Education
Targeted GCSE support for FSM students
Tunnicliffe Education is committed to reducing educational disadvantage by providing targeted academic support for pupils eligible for Free School Meals. We are an established Holiday Activities & Food (HAF) provider with experience supporting FSM‑eligible children. For this programme, we deliver structured, small‑group GCSE booster sessions in English, Maths and Science. Our aim is to give FSM‑eligible students access to exam preparation often available to families who can afford private tuition.
What will be covered
The session will include a mixture of informal activities and short GCSE-focused learning sessions. Students will take part in: - fun group activities and games - short English, Maths and Science booster sessions - confidence-building tasks - exam-style practice broken down into manageable steps - discussion about routines, revision habits and preparing for the new school year - a healthy meal and social time The academic sessions will focus on helping students refresh key skills, revisit important knowledge and feel more confident before returning to school. Teaching will be clear, practical and supportive, with activities designed to feel achievable rather than overwhelming. The day will be informal and friendly, with regular breaks and activities to help students stay engaged.
Learning aims
Aim 1
To develop students’ confidence and understanding across key GCSE topics in English, Maths and Science through targeted revision and guided support.
Aim 2
To improve students’ ability to answer GCSE exam questions effectively by practising exam techniques, structuring responses and applying knowledge under guidance.
What do I need to attend?
Students do not need to bring anything with them. All resources, equipment and materials will be provided, along with a healthy meal at the start of each session. Just come along ready to take part, ask questions and give it a go — we’ll take care of the rest.
Pricing information
Ticket nameHAF Eligible Student
Price£0
Ticket nameFSM Student Swan School
Price£0
InformationPlease use this ticket if your son or daughter attends the Swan School
Ticket nameFSM Student Oxf Academy
Price£0
InformationPlease use this ticket if your son or daughter attends the Oxford Academy
Ticket nameFSM Student Oxf Spires
Price£0
InformationPlease use this ticket if your son or daughter attends the Oxford Spires Academy
LEARNER REFLECTIONS0 reflections
Where we'll be
Barton Neighbourhood Centre, Underhill Circus, Oxford, England, OX3 9LS
WHAT’S PROVIDED
Drinks
Snacks
Meals
Equipment
Safety
Enhanced DBS
Basic DBS
Risk Assessment
Public Liability Insurance
Safeguarding Training
First Aid Training
First Aid Kit
Smoke Detector

Please note

Please note, it is the responsibility of the booker to satisfy themselves about the adequacy of the safety measures. This platform is merely an introducer and does not verify the items listed here.

Cancellation Policy
Please cancel at least 48 hours before the start of a session so that your place(s) can be offered to someone else. If you have booked both sessions and do not cancel or show up at the first session, we will cancel your second session and offer it to someone else

My experience is an educational activity and the 14-day cooling-off period under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 therefore applies. After the 14 day period my standard policy will apply.