Preparing to sit exams can be a stressful time both for the students taking them and their loved ones worrying about the impact such pressure might have.
This is why Headstart Kernow – part of Cornwall Council’s Together for Families service – continues to offer a wealth of top revision tips and mental health support on its Start Now website.
All the resources have been developed in conjunction with young people themselves, including some key advice from pupils at St Ives School.
Parents and students should keep in mind the following key tips for surviving exams:
- Learn to recognise the signs of stress and if you feel overwhelmed then talk to friends, parents, carers or school staff. Start Now’s Get Help page has some useful ideas too.
- Remember to focus on yourself not your friends, so avoid comparing your revision with that of your classmates. Everybody does it differently and they don't tell you (or themselves) the truth about just how well it is going.
- Manage your time. Make a realistic timetable. Stick to it. Everyone approaches revision in different ways so make sure you’ve chosen the method that works best for you.
- Plan breaks and treats into your revision schedule in order to reward yourself. This includes exercise and time to just play!
- Eat healthily by having breakfast and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Try to avoid junk food.
- Get your eight hours sleep. Wind down before bed by putting away your phone and tablet.
Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, portfolio holder for children and families at Cornwall Council, said:
“Getting ready to take exams can be a really stressful time so it’s important to look after yourself and make use of all the help and support that’s available.
“I would recommend that all students, parents and carers take a look at the tips and tools on Start Now website and find ones that work for you. Remember, you won’t be the only one feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
“Also remember that yes, exams can be helpful for your next steps in life and it’s important to do your very best, but they are not the be all and end all and you are not defined by your exam grades.
“I wish everyone taking exams this year the very best of luck.”
Start Now is part of the Headstart Kernow project, which was funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and run by Cornwall Council’s Together for Families service.
It aims to help children and young people manage their emotional health and wellbeing and has supported more than 87,000 young people over the past six years six years.
Visit the Start Now website and the Headstart Kernow website for more information, help and support. You can also check out our video on top tips for exam stress
Press release issued on May 3, 2023.
