With exam season fast approaching, we’ve put together our top tips for teachers, parents and carers. Navigating exams successfully isn’t just about studying hard – it’s about healthy routines, looking after yourself, managing time effectively, building confidence and feeling well supported. Check out our TPC advice to give children all the tools, encouragement and support they need…
1. If they are older, encourage them to put together a revision timetable with plenty of breaks, you can help with designing the layout or compiling revision topics but let them take ownership of the process. A colour-coded revision schedule that they’ve put together themselves can be a fantastic motivator – if they’ve designed it, they’re more likely to stick to it!
2. Remind them that revision is about being filling gaps – don’t spend time going over the knowledge they already have, tackle the gaps and use time wisely. Try the Pomodoro method to break revision into manageable chunks – 25 minutes work, 5 minutes break followed by a long break after 2, 3 or 4 Pomodoros depending on age and/or focus.
3. Model the importance of looking after yourself – show them that good sleep, eating well, hydration, exercise and breaking up their work with days out and time spent with friends and family will improve performance
4. Gently encourage them to remember that while exams can be important markers, they are not the be all and end all. If they work hard and do their best, that’s all that matters – in fact, a setback can often be a stepping stone to future success. Even Albert Einstein, of the most brilliant physicists in history, failed a succession of college examinations before he finally graduated a year later!
5. Reinforce the idea that some stress is good – harnessing those butterflies in their tummy or feeling of adrenaline just before the exam can help them perform at their best. Try out the TPC calming strategies – a toolbox of brilliant techniques and visualisations to feel confident, grounded, focused and in control.
6. Let them know that you believe in them. Having a teacher, parent or carer as your champion, your cheerleader, your advocate – even when the going gets tough – means the world to children and young people.
Here are some resources that might help
Try listening to a calming meditation before bed, between revising, or after a long day at school! Here are some we have created for you
Written by Rachel Knight
Client Support TPC Therapy
Supporting the schools and our therapeutic school award journey