Managing exam stress: 6 tips for teachers

1. know your AMBER pupils? create the right climate spot the signs signpost support watch your language make resilient moves Managing exam stress: 6 tips for teachers

2. know your AMBER pupils These 2 pupils were asked on the same day at the same time to make a model to reflect how school makes them feel. “My work means that everything I do in life and school will be woven together and contribute to making something big. Everything I do is a small thread that will weave one big fabric.” “I feel strained and exhausted due to school because it requires too much from me.” How well are you reading your room?

3. know your AMBER pupils? Who are the (amber) students in your class as far as exam confidence is concerned? Highlight them on your register, get to know them better and hold them in mind in your lessons

4. make resilient moves What every teacher can do in every exam class

5. create the right climate highlight achievements instil a sense of hope create healthy relationships be a good influence look on the bright side focus on good times and places have a laugh How much do these resilience-building principles underpin your language, your practice and the climate in your exam classes?

6. Things to consider: • what does your room look like/feel like? • seating plans • consistent routines • calm & confident language • praise & rewards • knowing personal information about individuals • giving constructive feedback • filling in knowledge gaps • signposting support • supporting vulnerable students to feel more relaxed create the right climate How well are you promoting resilience & wellbeing in your lessons with Year 11?

7. watch your language Kelsey, a Newham student, speaking at the end of Year 11 “At the end of the day, your results and the letters [and numbers] you get on that paper will never define you as a person and teachers need to tell us that. Because we get told our whole life that those grades will shape our future. They won’t. The decisions that you make and the path you choose to take will define your future. The friends that you make, the conversations that you have, the knowledge that you gain will define your future.” Be honest! How much could your language and behaviour in your exam classes be ADDING to rather than alleviating the stress and anxiety in the room?

8. spot the signs hard to get to sleep or wake up in the morning forgetfulness anxious and grumpy dizziness don’t want to eat increased heart rate migraines and headaches loss of interest in activities always tired blurred vision aches and pains signs of stress and anxiety

9. signpost support What support is available to your students in your department, in their tutor group and across the whole school? Make sure you pass that information on. Has every student in your class got an adult they can talk to if they are feeling anxious/stressed?

10. Managing Exam Stress: Resilient Moves for Teachers All of these strategies help to promote wellbeing and build resilience in the classroom. How many do you practise on a daily basis? Are there any others which have worked for you and that you can recommend?