Exam stress is a feeling of pressure experienced by students in the run up to exams as well as during the exam period.

The wait for exam results can also create anxiety as students wait to find out if they have done as well as they and others expected.

Why does it happen?

• Lack of control - exams bring a level of uncertainty and this can feel uncomfortable.
• A lot to learn - some types of exams such as GCSE and A levels rely on learning and recalling large amounts of information. This level of recall can be a challenge for some students.
• High stakes - the results of exams are often the gateway to the next stage of education or route into work.
• It's very common- some level of stress is helpful but long term high stress levels can be harmful.

How schools can help

Long-term help for students involves creating a school environment and atmosphere that values a wide range of achievements.

• Develop an ethos that values and celebrates a wide range of achievements. This can help students understand that exams are not the only measure of success.
• Help students develop resilience with policies and practice that develop self-esteem and supportive relationships.
• Be vigilant to the needs of certain groups. Young carers and those with chronic health conditions may have commitments out of school time that

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Offer information and practical advice to students and parents and carers

• Perspective. Help students to understand that though exams feel like the most important thing right now, it will not always feel this way.
• Sleep. Explain to students that getting enough sleep can make a huge difference. Establishing a good nighttime routine during the revision period and exam time will help. (Taking time to relax before going to bed, an hour screen free time before bedtime and aiming for 8-10 hours sleep a night.)
• Nourishment. A balanced diet and adequate hydration are important for staying physically healthy, this is also vital for concentrating and retaining information. Remember that some students may not have access to a healthy diet.
• Physical Activity & Relaxation. Encourage physical activity; this can bring positive mood changes. Relaxing and doing something enjoyable can enhance mood and help calm the mind. Mindfulness techniques can also help with feelings of stress and anxiety.
• Revision strategies. Start developing study skills and revision techniques early on, so students are familiar with a variety of strategies before the exam period begins. Help students find what works best for them.
• Create opportunities for parents and carers to share any concerns they might have about their child. Some students may find it difficult to talk directly to school staff about their concerns and feelings. 

Access arrangements, reasonable adjustments and special considerations

It's important to discuss access arrangements early if a student has a long standing medical or mental health condition. They may meet the threshold for arrangements that can be made by the SENDCO and exams officer. 

Rest breaks or additional time way be helpful for some students. 

Where a student may need the use of a scribe, reader or laptop, it's imporatnt these are part of their usual way of working so should be part of their school routine. 

Talking to the young person and their parent/carer is the best way to find out what they think will work for them given their health needs. 

Managing results day 

It’s only natural to feel nervous about exam results, they are important for next steps. However, not getting the results expected can sometimes lead to unexpected but equally good outcomes. 

Here are some key things that may help young people prepare:

• Voice that it is OK to feel nervous, we often feel nervous when we do not have control. Once the results are out things will feel better because decisions can be made even if the results are not exactly what was hoped for. 
• Encourage young people to talk about how they are feeling. This may be to a parent, a trusted adult, or a good friend. 
• Talk to students about the positives that can come out of dealing with the unexpected, be that doing better than expected or not getting the results they need. Give some examples of positive experiences of previous students.
• Give students information about helplines such as Childline they can use if they are feeling unable to cope leading up to results day or on or after the day. 

 Tips for results day:

• Inform students of their options are for collecting  results, they can decide what will work best for them. 
• Key staff being available to help students understand what the results mean for their next steps. This might include checking they have the required grades for 6th form, College, or University. 
• Support students who may feel their results are not reflective of how they did in the exam is really important. Provide information, advice and guidance on the appeals system. 
• Some young people may be worried about sharing their results with parents/carers. For some the support of a staff member may help.