GCSE / IGCSE: Turning Under‑Achievement Into Progress – A Parent One‑Pager

This one‑page guide explains how our bespoke approach at SENSpecialists.org helps students who are under‑achieving in GCSE / IGCSE, including those with Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD) and other SEN profiles. It’s written for parents and carers.

Why students under‑achieve (in brief)?

• Gaps in reading, writing or numeracy make new topics harder.

• Slow processing/working memory means exams feel too fast.

• Passive study habits (rereading) instead of active practice.

• Low confidence/anxiety; difficulty getting started and staying organised.

What we do differently?

• Personalised plan built from a short diagnostic (strengths, gaps, exam‑skill needs).

• Bespoke, scaffolded worksheets that move from modelled examples → guided steps → independent practice.

• Examiner‑informed technique: how to plan answers, manage time and use access arrangements properly.

• Executive‑function coaching: planning, micro‑goals, timers and routines so study actually happens.

• Mentoring check‑ins to build motivation and reduce anxiety.

Why textbooks/revision guides aren’t a full solution?

• Assume average pace/processing; not designed for MLD or SEN needs.

• Encourage passive rereading rather than active retrieval and scaffolded practice.

• Rarely teach answer structure, timing and exam heuristics.

What progress looks like?

• Clearer, shorter steps that your child can complete in each lesson.

• Better retention from frequent low‑stakes quizzes and retrieval practice.

• Improved completion of exam questions under time limits.

• Measured grade gains in mocks/finals when access arrangements and practice are aligned.

A typical week (simple and sustainable)

• 1 × focused lesson (scaffolded worksheet; one small skill mastered).

• 1 × 10–15 min retrieval quiz or flashcards (spaced practice).

• 1 × timed mini‑task (e.g., a 10–12 min exam‑style question).

• 5‑minute mentoring check‑in: wins, one next step, plan for the week.

What parents can do this week?

• Agree a quiet study slot (20–30 mins) and a visible timer.

• Use a simple checklist: plan → practise → quick quiz → review.

• Celebrate one small win per session to build momentum.

Next step

Share your child’s subject, current grade and target. We’ll create a 8–12 week plan and a sample bespoke worksheet aligned to their needs and exam board.

SENSpecialists.org • UK‑qualified tutors • Learning design • Mentoring • Executive‑function coaching