Celebrating the End of Exams: How to Reward Yourself for Your Hard Work

1. Throw a Post-Exam Party with Friends

Let’s start with the most traditional way of celebrating: a party! Gather your friends, throw on some music, and have a blast. Here are some ideas for a memorable post-exam party:

• Games Night: From board games to outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone – if you’re struggling for ideas, ask google or even ChatGPT for inspiration

• Outdoor BBQ: Even though we live in the UK, the weather isn’t all that bad this summer, so consider having a BBQ in your backyard or at a local park. Grill up some burgers, hot dogs, and veggies, and enjoy the fresh air.

• Pool Party: If you or someone you know has access to a pool, a pool party is a great way to cool off and have fun. Bring inflatables, snacks, and your favourite tunes for an unforgettable day.

2. Take a Weekend Getaway

Sometimes, a change of scenery is the perfect way to unwind. Plan a weekend getaway with your friends or family to explore new places and create lasting memories. Here are some ideas:

• Camping Trip: Before it gets too wet in autumn, head to Lake or Peak District and pitch a tent for a couple of nights. Enjoy hiking, stargazing, and roasting marshmallows over a campfire.

• Beach Escape: Spend your days lounging on the sand, swimming in the ocean, and indulging in beach activities like volleyball or surfing.

• City Adventure: This doesn’t necessarily mean doing all the touristy ideas in London. Go to a city you haven’t been before with no plan or prior knowledge and just walk around, exploring the city’s architecture and history

3. Pursue a New Hobby or Learn a Skill

This summer you don’t have to study as much (obviously), so you have plenty of spare time to learn something new. Whether it's something you've always wanted to try or something entirely new, here's how you can dive in:

• Music and Instruments: Always wanted to play an instrument? Take some lessons or teach yourself using online resources. Whether it's guitar, piano, or even singing, music is a great way to unwind.

• Sports and Fitness: Join a local sports team or just start going to your local gym. Keeping active is not only great for your health but also a fantastic way to make new friends.

• Prepare yourself for A-levels: Whether its simply reading a book or learning a coding language, anything will help you with the transition between GCSEs and A-Levels. You can find out more about this in Sri’s blog post

5. Go on a Movie or TV Series Marathon

Sometimes, the best way to relax is to binge-watch your favourite shows or movies. Stock up on popcorn, grab your coziest blanket, and settle in for a marathon. Here are some options:

• Classic Movies: Watch iconic films that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s an old Hollywood classic or a favourite from your childhood, these films are always enjoyable.

• TV Series: Catch up on a TV series you’ve missed or start a new one that everyone’s been talking about. With so many streaming platforms, there's no shortage of options. In my summer break, I managed to finish the whole of Suits!

• Documentaries: Expand your knowledge with a documentary about nature, history, or even pop culture. You might find yourself captivated by a new topic, or it may be beneficial for your choices post-GCSE!

6. Get a Job or Volunteer

If you want to be able to fund all your adventures this summer, you might need a job! Build your CV or use your connections to start making money. If you don’t care about the money and just want to give back to the community, consider volunteering. It not only helps those in need but also allows you to gain valuable experiences. If you are considering a career in medicine or dentistry, you will need lots of volunteering experience for your personal statement. Consider these options:

• Skill-Based Work: Use your skills to help others, whether it's tutoring younger students, teaching art classes, or coaching a sports team.

• Retail jobs: Companies such as JD Sports or food chains like Domino’s are always hiring so make sure to check their websites to see if they have any available places.

• Community Projects: Get involved in community clean-ups, food drives, or charity events. It's a great way to meet new people and make a positive impact.

7. Plan a Day of Adventure

For those who love excitement, planning a day filled with adventure is a must. Here are some thrilling activities to consider:

• Theme Park: Spend a day at a theme park and experience all the rides, shows, and attractions.

• Hiking and Biking: Explore local trails, go for a hike, or take a bike ride through scenic paths. Nature is a great way to clear your mind and appreciate the world around you.

• Water Sports: Try out kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkelling if you live near a lake or the sea. Water sports are fun and a great way to stay active.