Year 10 is the first half of the two-year GCSE journey. Lessons get more demanding, coursework starts in some subjects, and the year ends with exams and, at many schools, work experience. The key this year: as each topic is finished, practise exam questions, spot gaps early and start Year 11 on solid foundations.
This guide draws on years of seminars and one-to-one guidance with families and students across England. Inside you will find:
- Past papers: when and how? From topic questions to full papers, with a term-by-term plan
- A topic checklist (Red/Amber/Green) and past paper tracking
- Work experience: how to find it and how to prepare
- Year 10 in Unifrog: CV / Resumé, virtual work experience, post-16 options
- Taking a home-language GCSE early, and keeping the language going at home
- Month-by-month checklist: three small steps each month, a video/podcast, and one English book plus one in your home language
Our weekly study plan, GCSE past paper list and tracking file for Years 10–11 can also be used alongside this guide.
This guide is a living document. It will be updated regularly based on your questions and suggestions.
We'd love to hear your questions and comments
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- Where do you find past papers, and which websites help you most?
- When is work experience at your child's school, and who finds the placement?
- Which subject is the biggest struggle?
We'll answer questions on this page as soon as we can.
Please don't share your child's name, school or other personal details in the comments.