Work, rest AND play: the benefits of time management for students

Life at Collège Champittet is fun-filled and busy. 

Days and weeks are packed with activities and responsibilities, from classes and coursework to extra-curricular clubs and community service opportunities. This is why it’s so important to help our students to develop good time management skills.

By learning to plan their time wisely, students can be more productive, develop great study habits, and create a balanced lifestyle – one that fosters both personal and academic growth. Mastering this essential skill also sets them up for future success.

In this article, we talk about the benefits of time management for students, and how we, as a school, instil lifelong skills from an early age.

Why is time management important for students?

Time management plays an integral role in students’ day-to-day lives.Research shows that young people who can effectively manage their time perform better academically. In fact, a University of Pennsylvania study found that self-discipline – the driving force behind time management – is a better predictor of teenagers’ academic performance than intelligence.Students who are good at managing their time tend to be more organised, meet more deadlines, and can handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously. They know how to optimise their study schedule and, ultimately, have more spare time for their hobbies. 

The benefits of time management skills for students

From improved wellbeing and reduced stress to increased productivity and more free time, there are many benefits to nurturing good time management skills in students.

Better academic performance

Effective time management significantly boosts academic performance. When students plan their study schedule smartly, they can dedicate time to a subject or topic, ensuring they develop a thorough understanding. This reduces last-minute cramming and exam stress, thereby improving grades.

Developing self-discipline 

Being good at managing time builds self-discipline and a sense of responsibility. Students learn to set realistic goals and deadlines, and are more likely to stick to a schedule. This self-discipline extends beyond academics, too, positively influencing their personal lives.

Reduced stress

Time management is a powerful tool against stress and anxiety. Students who have a well-structured schedule experience less academic pressure. They’re also less likely to feel overwhelmed by deadlines because they have a clear plan for tackling tasks. By planning and organising their time effectively, our students can reduce stress and approach learning with a focused mindset.

Increased productivity – and more free time!

When our learners manage their time well, productivity soars. They can prioritise tasks, set goals, and work efficiently, leading to improved academic performance. Proper time management leads to more free time, too. By efficiently completing tasks, our students can enjoy their hobbies and socialise without the burden of unfinished homework or revision hanging over them.

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Set for future success 

Effective time management skills are something our students need for the future. The skills they learn here are invaluable when it comes to meeting the demands of higher education, work, and life in general. They’re also crucial for personal growth and lifelong learning, which are key to staying relevant in today’s fast-paced world.

A personalised approach to time management

So, how do we foster good time management techniques in our students? Like every aspect of the education we offer at Collège Champittet, we take a personalised approach. This means finding out what works for each child. Strategies such as goal setting, breaking tasks into more manageable chunks, and using planners can all help a student focus and stay on track. The innovative use of technology, including shared digital platforms, also supports learning.Our commitment to wellbeing – overseen by our outstanding pastoral care team – gives our students the tools they need to manage stress and maintain a healthy school-life balance, too.

Time management techniques for students

There are some fundamental things your child can do to improve their time management skills. These suggestions are particularly relevant for older students, especially those studying for exams.

Create a plan

Creating a plan is the first step towards reaping the benefits of good time management. Make a list of tasks, assignments, and activities that need to be completed each day or week. Try to factor in any extra-curricular activities and social events, too. The plan should include breaks or free time to balance workloads.

Prioritise tasks

Once a plan has been created, prioritise the tasks that need to be completed first. This will ensure that important deadlines are met. Prioritising also helps to reduce stress, as there is less chance your child will forget something important.

Avoid distractions

Try to identify any activities or distractions that are affecting your child’s focus and progress. These might include spending too much time on social media, watching television, or chatting with friends. By identifying and limiting these activities, your child will be able to focus their energy on the tasks that need to be completed.

Reward achievements

It’s important your child rewards themself when they hit a key milestone or complete a task. This could include things like watching an episode of a favourite show, having a snack, or taking a walk. Doing this will keep them motivated and provide something to look forward to.-

Conclusion – time management is important for students!

By helping our students master the art of time management, they can achieve a healthy balance between their academic and personal lives. This results in better grades, reduced stress levels, and improved wellbeing.However, it’s important to remember that time management isn’t simply about filling every minute with schoolwork; it’s about creating a balanced schedule that includes studies, activities, and rest.