Supporting Your Child to Prepare for the GAT

To our valued Parents,

As your child prepares to sit the General Achievement Test (GAT), you might be feeling a mix of trepidation and eagerness to support them during this important milestone. The GAT is a valuable opportunity for students to showcase the general skills and knowledge they have acquired throughout their schooling, and while it doesn’t require specialised study, it does serve as an important piece in the VCAA VCE puzzle – ensuring fairness and accuracy for students in their VCE results.

You can support your child’s preparation by encouraging them to complete past GAT papers at home and to carefully read the feedback provided from the Practice GAT they completed at school. These small but effective steps can help build familiarity and confidence ahead of the official test day.

So, what else can you do to help your child succeed as they prepare for, and complete, the GAT?

Maintain a balanced environment

It’s essential to maintain a balanced and supportive environment. Making sure your child gets enough sleep, eats nutritious meals, engages in physical activity, and finds time for relaxation and enjoyable activities outside of school will help them stay focused, energised, and ready to tackle the GAT with confidence. As adults, we understand the way in which we can be pulled in many different directions day to day, and how that can create an imbalance in our schedules where we forgo routine and opportunities for rest. We also understand the impact a lack of rest can have on our effectiveness and performance. Encouraging breaks and downtime is essential. It helps to maintain a healthy balance between study and relaxation. Please emphasise the importance of breaking up study time with short breaks, and encourage activities that help your child relax and recharge, so that they can perform to their best.

Encourage open communication

Keeping open communication with your child is also essential in helping them to feel supported and understood. Create a safe and open environment for them to discuss their concerns, anxieties, and preparations for the GAT, as by actively listening and providing reassurance, you can help alleviate any stress or pressure they may be feeling. You might even be able to combine the opportunity to open the lines of communication with a study break – taking a quick walk with your child allows for both of those things to occur concurrently.

Recognise signs of stress

Lastly, be aware of signs of stress, such as physical symptoms, mental and behavioural changes, and offer support when needed. By recognising these signs early, you can provide the necessary support to help your child navigate any challenges they may face. This might include encouraging your child to practice deep breathing exercises. Have them inhale deeply through their nose for four counts, hold for four counts, and then exhale slowly through their mouth for four counts. This can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.
Please know, parents, that your support makes a substantial difference in your child’s preparation and overall experience of the GAT. Studies have shown that students who receive emotional and practical support from their parents tend to perform better in examinations and experience less stress. By being there for your child, you can help them navigate the challenges of GAT preparation with confidence and resilience.

We wish our students the very best for the GAT and wish our families the best in the coming week as you support your children to prepare.

Amy Vocale
Director of Teaching and Learning

Share: