The Self-Study shortcut

So this week has felt… weirdly familiar.If you’ve been following along, you’ll know about the big CeMAP changes coming up in 2025/26 (read the full blog here). And because of those updates, I’ve suddenly found myself doing exactly what you are doing: textbook open, highlighter out, head down, trying to get to grips with brand new material so I can rebuild the courses in time. 

I absolutely feel like I’m right back in the CeMAP trenches with you, and it’s reminded me of just how intense self-study can feel. But it’s also reminded me what really works.

So here are 5 tried-and-tested tips I swear by — for both me and you:

1. Flashcards are your best mate.Whether they’re physical or digital, writing down tricky concepts helps fix them in your brain, and you can drill them in short bursts any time.

2. Set a study timer.25 minutes on, 5 minutes off — and keep your phone out of reach until that timer pings. You’ll focus better, I promise.

3. Pick your power hours.Notice when you feel most alert — morning, afternoon, evening — and protect that time for your hardest topics. Your brain will thank you.

4. Re-read actively.Don’t just skim. Pause, summarise in your own words, then teach it back to yourself (yes, even out loud in your kitchen!).

5. Track what you don’t know.It’s tempting to go over what feels comfy — but keeping a list of “still wobbly” topics will help you target what actually needs work.

So, what should you do about the CeMAP changes?

My inbox has been absolutely flooded with worried messages since the announcement, and I get it — change is stressful. But my honest advice? Get qualified now.

Here’s why:

• The current exams are familiar and well-tested

• You’ve got proven resources ready to go

• Any new material will have teething issues, no matter who you study with

If you can commit around 5–6 hours per week, you could be exam-ready in 6 weeks — with a little buffer for resits if you need it.

My CeMAP E-Learning package is built on literal years of student feedback. You get:

 Video lessons Downloadable guides Mock exams Weekly study planners Pocket coaching via WhatsApp And lifetime access — so you’re covered for any curveballs

This isn’t just a course. It’s the complete toolkit to get you across the finish line before the changes land.

Oh, and if that wasn't enough, here's just a few messages I've had the last three days about the E-Learning...

As always, I'm here to support whatever you need, so don't be afraid to drop me a Whatsapp on 07825149137.

C x