Frequently asked questions

Who are the courses suitable for?

The courses are suitable for students in Year 11 (Final year of GCSE & IGCSE), Year 12 (AS Level – the first year of A Level) and Year 13 (A2 Level – the final year of A Level) who will be sitting their exams in summer 2010.

Do I need a course if I'm predicted a good grade?

Revision courses aren’t just for students who are struggling with a subject. Our courses are taken by students who wish to ensure they get their predicted grade or even wish to increase it. Students predicted A* often come on our courses! The courses aim to consolidate a student’s knowledge and help with examination technique so that students have extra confidence when it comes to walking into the exams. The courses are designed to make the best of the revision time available over the Easter break.

How much can I expect to improve?

The courses are for revision of work already covered. If you have minor gaps in your knowledge or areas you have covered already but have forgotten or not understood very well, the courses will help. They are not a substitute for a lack of work over the rest of the year!

What tier are the GCSE courses suitable for?

All the courses are designed for students taking higher tier examinations only. However, some courses may be helpful to students on intermediate tier. Please check the specific course outline to check what topics the course will cover.

I'm studying a different board to the one you cover. Will the course still be relevant?

You must show our course outline to your teacher at school/college who will be able to advise you if the course is relevant to you.

How many subjects can be studied in a week?

GCSE & IGCSE: All subjects take 5 half days so 2 subjects can be studied each week.

AS & A2-Level: All subjects take 5 half days so 2 subjects can be studied each week.

How many students are there in a class?

• For all GCSE & IGCSE subjects it is a maximum of 10 students per class.
• For AS and A2, it is a maximum of 8 students per class.

We believe that a class size smaller than the usual school class size is beneficial to allow students time to ask questions and gain confidence through receiving more individual attention.

If I come late what will I miss?

Your tutor will give you notes and a brief overview of the work you missed. We are unable to guarantee exactly what will be covered on any given day as the courses are planned to allow maximum flexibility in catering for the needs of the students, concentrating on their particular weaknesses.

Is there homework?

Yes, students are set up to 1½ hour's work for each subject each day.

If I miss a day/morning, can I have a reduction on fees?

No, this is not possible.

Who are the teachers?

Many are Harrow School and John Lyon staff (John Lyon is part of the same foundation as Harrow School). Others come from other reputable schools e.g. Radley College, Merchant Taylor’s School and Roedean School. All are interviewed according to the same academic criteria as permanent Harrow School staff.

Why aren't they all from Harrow School?

It is necessary to employ teachers from outside Harrow School in order to cover the range of boards and specifications on offer – most schools only offer one board per subject. Many of the staff have taught with us for many years. Some of the tutors are also national examiners. The Director of Studies, who oversees the academic quality of the courses, is a senior full time Harrow School teacher.

Why do you charge an administration fee for alterations to bookings?

Due to the complexities of timetabling an administration fee must be made.

Can I book a place over the phone?

You can reserve a place for 3 working days. However, we cannot process the application until we have received the signed application form, or an application submitted online. After 3 working days, we will release the place.