I am currently in Kenya, where students are starting a new academic year this month, while my students in the UK are entering their second term. The advice I am sharing here is relevant for anyone starting a new term, no matter where you are, kickstart the term right! 😊

A new term is the perfect opportunity to start fresh with renewed determination and motivation. I might be biased, but mathematics is one of the easiest subjects to excel in—if you have the right strategy. You cannot approach it blindly. If success were that simple, everyone would be “good at mathematics.” To truly stand out, you need to be strategic and intentional about your learning, aiming to join the elite group of mathematicians.

So, let us explore what successful students do to kickstart a new term:

1. Kickstart the term right by Setting Yourself Goals

I will admit, I am not always a fan of setting goals, but I know they are important for any success. For my tuition students, I often set assessments over the holidays to identify which topics they find challenging. With that information, they can set clear, focused goals. If you have recently had a test, reflect on your performance. Ask your teacher for a list of topics to work on or advice on goals to aim for. If you are stuck for ideas, start with something simple, like “I will practice solving quadratic equations twice a week.”

But why stop there? You can create long-term goals. Dream big! Think of Mo Farah—when he got serious about athletics, he did not just aim to be good; he aimed to be the best in the world. You can do the same with mathematics. Set an ambitious goal, like achieving a Grade 9 in your Maths GCSE/IGCSE, and review your progress regularly to stay motivated and on track.

2. Kickstart the term right by Getting Organised

No excuses here! Once Mo Farah set his ambitious goal, he went to Kenya and Ethiopia to train with the world’s best athletes. If you want to excel in mathematics, you need to make sure you are prepared and organised too.

Here is your checklist of essential tools:

• Exercise books/Notebooks
• Calculator (I recommend the Casio ClassWiz)
  • The minimum-requirement scientific calculator is the fx-83G CW or fx-85GT CW. These have all the functionality required for GCSE/IGCSE. However the advanced scientific calculator fx-991CW will give students an advantage for both learning and the exam in solving equations.
• Pens (don’t show up to school/class without one please)
• Pencil (for diagrams)
• Compass set (for drawing and other tools)

If you study at home, create a dedicated, distraction-free space for independent learning.

Organisation also means planning your revision effectively, breaking down your study into manageable chunks, and sticking to a schedule.

3. Kickstart the term right by Getting Mentors

‘Everybody needs somebody to get them started,’ Mohamed Farah.

Just like Mo Farah relied on the support of other athletes, you too can make use of the help around you.

• Parents can help you stay organised and hold you accountable for your work at home.
• Teachers are a valuable resource—they want to see you succeed! Even if you don’t have the closest relationship with them, do not hesitate to ask for help. Review your notes regularly, and jot down questions to ask in class.
• Siblings or relatives can offer additional support.
• And, of course, you have me—your dedicated maths tutor! 😊

Getting into the habit of asking questions and reviewing material regularly will keep you ahead.

4. Kickstart the term right by Developing a Routine

Routines are key to success. From the moment you wake up (no snoozing!) to getting ready for school, travelling, and setting time aside to study, a solid routine keeps you organised and productive.

School already helps with structure—class times, breaks, and activities—so now it is your turn to create a routine for after school. Plan what you will do from when you get home until bedtime. A strong routine outside of school is just as important as the one you follow in school. Remember, elite students live intentionally and stay focused!

5. Kickstart the term right by Staying Positive

Starting something new often comes with challenges, but over time, things tend to fall into place. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to be perfect from the start. Building new habits takes time, especially for students in Kenya who have had a long break of at least two months. Be patient with yourself, stay positive, and trust that progress will come.

Also, I know homework might not be everyone’s favourite, but it is a crucial part of learning mathematics. Think of it as an opportunity to practise and reinforce what you’ve learned in class. It might feel extra difficult after a long break, but a good tip is to schedule a specific time for homework each day and avoid leaving it until the last minute.