Dave Lindo, Gleaner Writer

BELLEFIELD, Manchester:

BRANDON WILSON of Bellefield Primary School is stepping up the pace in his preparation for the upcoming Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) in March of next year.

The youngster has been increasing his study hours, especially in his weakest area - social studies.

"I have been working even harder now," Brandon said. "I know I need to improve in social studies, so I have been putting in some more serious work in that area."

The extra work in social studies has been paying off, as he recently scored 95 per cent in a test.

"I feel good about the result of that test, I have to now try and be consistent in that subject, as well as the other subject areas," he said.

Meanwhile, he continues to do exceptionally well in his other subject areas - especially in integrated science and mathematics, his favourite subjects.

Brandon's parents, Herman and Joana, are also getting in on the act by helping him with his studies. They are cognisant of the fact that students doing GSAT perform better when they have the support of their family.

STRONG FAMILY SUPPORT

"They are very supportive. They will quiz me in the different subject areas after I finish studying," Brandon said. "That is helping me to get even sharper and if I don't understand something, I can always ask them, so I am happy for their help."

Brandon's teacher, Lenieve Watson, is very pleased with his progress.

"He is continuing to do well. He is very quiet, but he takes his work very serious and works real hard at it," she said.

rural@gleanerjm.com