Wellbeing - Middle School
Surviving the Storm
Last week we survived the stormy weather. At times, student life can feel a lot like standing in the middle of a deluge of rain. Assignments pile up like those dark clouds, exams feel like a heavy downpour and the busyness of after-school activities swirl around like heavy winds; as it was last week, it can literally be loud, messy, and tumultuous. However, the key to surviving is finding shelter—creating calm moments, using the right tools (like planning and asking for help), and remembering that no bad weather lasts forever.
So, with it being that time of the year again - closing in on all the deadlines of exams/assignments stacking up, notebooks are overflowing, and the mere sight of “due dates” can be quite overwhelming. But while it might feel like your sons may be trapped in a never-ending cloud band of rain, here are some simple ways to survive (and even thrive) during this busy time.
Use a 25-minute study rule —study for 25 minutes, take a five-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break (15–20 minutes). It keeps the brain fresh and helps with focus.
Focus on movement - physical movement releases endorphins that naturally lower stress and improve mood.
Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep. The brain needs time to process, it needs rest and a chance to recharge.
Sometimes, the best stress relief is sharing it with someone - whether it’s a friend, teacher, parent/carer, or counsellor, talking about it helps lighten the mental load.
Stress is a signal. It means your sons care. But it doesn’t mean they have to cope through it alone - we rally around them, as we know you do as parents/carers. We got through those terrible conditions last week and we saw the pockets of sun late Friday afternoon. The sun reminds us of brighter and positive times are always ahead - a symbol of the light that your sons carry with them and the kindness they need in their inner selves knowing that all we ask for is that they do their best.
Alexandros Sinadinos
Director of Middle School