On Monday 13th October 2025, Stretford Grammar School welcomed InnerDrive, a leading organisation in educational psychology and student development, to deliver a dynamic Study Skills Workshop for our Year 9 and Year 11 students. Led by expert facilitators Tia and Olivia, the sessions were designed to equip students with essential tools to enhance their learning, manage stress, and prepare effectively for the challenges of Key Stage 4 and GCSEs.

Building Better Learning Habits

The workshops explored the science behind how we learn, with students diving into topics such as the pitfalls of multitasking and the importance of focused attention. Through engaging activities, they discovered how switching between tasks can reduce efficiency and learned practical strategies to manage their time more effectively.

Mastering Memory Techniques

Memory was another key focus. Students were introduced to powerful techniques to retain information, including effective note-taking, chunking, acronyms, and proven study methods like retrieval practice and spacing. These strategies are designed to help students handle large volumes of content with confidence and clarity.

The Power of Sleep

Recognising the link between rest and performance, the sessions also addressed sleep hygiene. Students explored the psychological impact of poor sleep on learning and emotional wellbeing, and were guided on how to avoid common sleep mistakes and build healthier habits.

Staying Organised and Managing Stress

Organisation and emotional resilience were central themes. Students learned how mental energy is a limited resource and how this can lead to procrastination. They explored ways to stay focused during busy periods and how to manage stress by understanding their emotions and avoiding negative assumptions in uncertain situations.

Supporting Success at Home

In addition to the student workshops, parents and carers of Year 11 students were invited into school for a dedicated guidance session. This event provided valuable insights into how families can support their children in preparing for GCSE examinations. From creating effective study environments to encouraging positive routines and understanding the emotional demands of exam preparation, parents left with practical strategies to help their child thrive.

About InnerDrive

InnerDrive is a respected organisation that specialises in translating the latest research in psychology and neuroscience into practical strategies for students, teachers, and parents. Their workshops are grounded in evidence-based techniques and are designed to boost motivation, resilience, and academic performance. With a focus on mindset, memory, and metacognition, InnerDrive empowers young people to take control of their learning and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Mr Price, Assistant Headteacher, praised the initiative: "The Study Skills Day was a fantastic opportunity for our students to reflect on how they learn and to develop strategies that will serve them well throughout their academic journey. Tia and Olivia from InnerDrive delivered engaging and insightful sessions that will have a lasting impact."