Wellbeing

Our Year 12s had a Pastoral Session this week, that looked at stress and how to tackle it

Stress in Year 12 is common, as students face intense academic pressure, looming SACs and exams and decisions about their future. Balancing study, extracurricular activities and a personal life can feel overwhelming.

Many students can fear failure or not meeting expectations from themselves, parents or teachers, which can lead to anxiety, stress, sleep problems and burnout.

Social challenges and uncertainty about future pathways add to the strain, and it is very important for students to seek support, maintain healthy routines, and manage their time effectively. 

Schools, families and peers play a key role in helping students cope and to remind them their mental health matters as much as their results.

Different strategies were talked about, that students could use when they are feeling stressed, and students did some mindful activities together. We also spoke about the importance of reaching out to talk to a trusted adult and friends, when times get tough. 

One of the concepts we looked at when managing stress and building resilience is the Circle or Control, which focuses on what we can control, rather than what we can’t. Understanding the Circle of Control empowers you to take responsibility without becoming overwhelmed by things beyond your influence. 

Students were also given a wellbeing pack, which contained some positive affirmations, self-care ideas and helpline numbers they can use to access support.

Wellbeing Team

St Peter's College.