To what extent do I need to Be There when he does his gcses?

[kitnkaboodle]

... which will be in a year's time. I've got the opportunity to get involved in an exciting project from roughly Feb-May next year. It isn't paid or work-related. My son will be doing gcses. I'd be out 2 evenings a week and odd Sundays. Does anyone who's been through the gcse period think I or he might regret that choice?? I know they are his exams, but is it a good idea to kind of be on standby?
He's in top sets, predicted good grades, unlikely (I'd say) to find the exam period too stressy, but not a great deal of work ethic ..

I was expecting you to say you were working away or a holiday. .
I am sure you will be on hand more than enough to support throughout the exams and do your job successfully. ..

It sounds like you will be there loads and it sets a good example to follow your own dreams too. Go for it.

That should be fine. You'll be there most of the time.

When you are out will there be another adult around?
TBH I think it's mainly worth being around to ensure electronic devices aren't being used when it's revision time and food and drink breaks are taken.

Yes, his dad will be there if I'm not - I guess I don't need to worry, then. It's just that I work at home anyway, so it seems a bit perverse tobe on hand on hand LESS than usual at an important time

I was expecting you to ask if it would be OK to go off on holiday too to which I would have said no!. What you are suggesting shouldn't present any issues. Sounds like a normal week in many people's houses.

For my sins I am head of year 11, I would say your job / working hours sound absolutely fine. What your son needs in the run up to the exams. and while they're on is regular, good quality sleep, to eat well, get fresh air and have a balance between study, rest and fun. You and his dad can provide / encourage that - you don't have to be there personally at every moment.

During the exams. themselves there can be logistical panics - waking up on exam. days, having an appropriate breakfast and taking lunch/drinks/snacks, getting to school on time despite late buses / traffic etc., having the right equipment for each exam. like calculators / clean copy of set texts, etc. But most students have to navigate that more or less alone as parents are out at work. With forward planning you can eliminate last minute panics, just make sure he knows who he can call if he does have a problem on an exam. day. (Example: wakes up feeling ill).

But these are experiences shared by all GCSE students, regardless of their parents' working hours. They can all be overcome and most of them can be organised in advance. Good luck to your son and enjoy your new job, OP.