Pastoral Care

Helping Young Adults Prepare for Life Beyond School

As the term draws to a close, we are all looking forward to a well-earned break. For our senior students, however, the reality of life after school and the question of “What happens next?” can feel overwhelming. It is common for students to experience uncertainty as they near the end of their secondary schooling.

These feelings can bring sleepless nights, anxiety, fears of not living up to expectations (personal, family, academic or cultural), or comparing themselves unfavourably to peers. As parents, guardians, and caregivers, we play an important role in helping to keep things in perspective. Below are some tips on recognising stress and encouraging connection during this key stage in their lives.

Recognising the Signs of Stress

Some signs your child may be struggling include:

• Constantly talking about the future

• Seeking frequent reassurance that things will be okay

• Striving for perfection in schoolwork or other areas

• Headaches, sleep issues, or changes in eating habits

• Persistent tiredness or lack of energy/motivation

• Negative self-talk

• Anger, irritability, or mood swings

• Ongoing worry, anxiety, or nervousness

• Feeling low or depressed

• Forgetfulness

Ways to Help Manage Stress About the Future

Put exams in perspective. Final exams can feel like “make or break” moments, but it’s important to remind students that exams are not the only measure of success. Share personal experiences or examples of people who may not have achieved high exam results but went on to achieve great things. Emphasise the many pathways available, including bridging courses, apprenticeships, internships, and alternative programs.

Explore options together. Sit down with your child to plan alternative pathways and discuss career choices. Encourage them to make the most of scheduled appointments with the Careers Department.

Acknowledge uncertainty. It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Practise responding to uncertainty in everyday life through simple activities like cooking without a recipe, watching a new show, or trying a game with no instructions. Reframing “I hope…” to “I wonder if…” helps reduce fear and makes uncertainty less daunting.

Encourage rest, fun, and self-care. Model and promote self-kindness and realistic thinking. Encourage time for relaxation, hobbies, and connection with friends. Physical activity and laughter both help reduce stress and shift mindsets.

Focus on gratitude and resilience. Talk about values, past challenges, and how they were overcome. Gratitude has been shown to reduce stress and boost resilience, reminding young people that they are supported and not alone.

Final Encouragement

It’s natural for students to feel overwhelmed as they prepare for the future, but it’s important to remember that no one can predict what comes next. Encourage your teen to focus on what they can control, trust in their ability to cope, and believe that things will work out.

Support is always available. Students can access ReachOut PeerChat, a free tool offering text-based peer support. Within the College, Homeroom Teachers, Heads of House, Heads of Learning, Deputies, our Counsellor, and Psychologist are also here to provide guidance and care.

We are all in this together.

The Pastoral Care Team