Life's full of stuff that lots of us don't like, such as feeling poorly, or losing your phone… and don't even get us started on those mysterious pickles on cheeseburgers. School also has its fair share of things you might not like and there might be certain subjects that you just can't get on board with, that bring you dread whenever you see them on your timetable and, let's be honest, where you might think 'what's the point?'
For YouTuber Lee Hinchcliffe that subject was English, but watch his chat with teacher Chloe to find out how you can change your mindset to make even the most dreaded lessons more worthwhile. If you want some extra tips, keep scrolling.
Chloe: Now, we all have subjects that we like more than others. That's just a fact of life. So, Lee, what were your favourite subjects at school?
Lee: I loved PE but didn't really like science. Everyone is different and has different likes and dislikes. But Chloe, why do we study certain subjects and we'll never use them again?
Chloe: Ah, well, all subjects give you skills that can be transferred to different parts of your life. So, you know, when you go to the shop and you get your change, checking that you got the right change,that's a math skill.
Lee: I've got a question here from Llew in Year 9.
Llew: How do I change my attitude about a subject that I hate?
Chloe: If you are struggling with a lesson or a subject, think about ways it can make it more engaging, and what techniques you can use for this.
Lee: What like?
Chloe: Oh, well, for example, you could start making some flashcards or drawing a mind map and you might even try some internet quizzes.
Lee: I love a good quiz.
Chloe: You can ask your teacher for support or you can go to your head of year or form tutor if there's another reason why you're not enjoying the subject.
Lee: I have a question here from Holly in Year 8, who says, what's the best way to feel excited for school after the weekend?
Chloe: Some people suffer from the Sunday blues, and that's when you're not looking forward to going to school after the weekend.
Lee: I always find it helpful to focus on one thing that you’re looking forward to.
Chloe: Just pinpointing one positive can really get you over the start the week hurdle.
Lee: Got it.
Chloe: But if you feel like this every day or it does persist, it's important to speak to a trusted adult and get some support.
Lee: That is great advice.
Chloe: Remember, every subject is important even if it's not interesting to you.
Lee: And it might change. I didn't really enjoy English, but I didn't realise up until now I've left school that I actually needed English to help come up with creative ideas for my videos.
Chloe: But the good thing about secondary school os you get to try all these different subjects and you find out which ones you do like and why.
How to get the most out of school
There are some things in school that you may not like very much, but you need to learn to live with them and get through to the other side. If you've watched the video and still want some more tips, then here are a few more ideas to help give a bit of a boost to your day.
Look at the bigger picture
Secondary school's all about diving into new subjects, but you might not enjoy all of them in the same way. Try looking at these subjects in a new light. All subjects give you valuable skills that can come in handy elsewhere. PE keeps you fit and healthy; Maths will help you with understanding wages and paying bills; and Music lets you be creative. Sometimes, just seeing the wider benefits of a subject will boost your motivation.
Choose your study style
Studying for subjects you don’t enjoy can be frustrating, especially during revision for tests and exams. Here’s when you’ll want to apply all your study skills – pick the methods you enjoy most to make studying feel easier. Are flashcards your thing? Or maybe you love a good mind map or making posters. Others might prefer revising through internet quizzes or how-to videos – luckily we have loads of them on Bitesize!
Keep upbeat
If you clash with a particular teacher, remain positive and stay polite. Chat with your head of year or another trusted adult – they might find a solution. Maybe that teacher doesn’t realise that their teaching style isn't working for you, or that the seating plan is actually hindering you. Keeping calm and reaching out to a trusted adult is best to find a speedy resolution.
Pin-point one thing
Do you ever get the ‘Sunday blues’ about going into school after the weekend? It can be helpful to focus on one good thing for the week that you’re looking forward to. Perhaps you go to a sports club on Monday lunchtime, or maybe there’s a friend you haven’t spoken to over the weekend and you can't wait to catch up. Pin-pointing one good thing can help you get over the start of the week hurdle.
There can be lots of tricky situations in school that we may not like, but have to learn to live with. If you want some more tips on how to overcome some difficult situations at school check out of study skills page.
If you need support
You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.
If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are more links to helpful organisations on the BBC Bitesize Action Line page for young people.
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