The Children’s Mental Health Week campaign running this week - Know Yourself, Grow Yourself, has put a spotlight on how we can build resilience, grow and develop by understanding who we are and what makes us tick.

While the idea of a "fresh start" in the new year can be motivating, it can also create stress and unrealistic expectations. Many feel the pressure to set and achieve ambitious goals, leading to feelings of disappointment if things don’t go as planned. It can be argued that new year’s resolutions are becoming more of an irresolution of unhealthy expectations. Instead, try to look at them as methods of self-improvement not unbreakable promises. It’s more helpful to see it as a journey—one that allows for growth, change, reflection and
self-compassion.

I invited students to share their best advice on managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset.

A Positive Morning / Evening Routine

A positive routine is vital to a positive working week. It sets you up for a productive day by being prepared and organised.

For any students who struggle with anxiety, a solid routine will help with motivation and to do the best you can.

“Preparing your lunch the night prior helps to reduce any stress in the morning, as well as a good night’s sleep in helping to cope with the struggles of the day!”. 
Sophie (Yr 12) 

Harriet (Yr 7) told me that she packs her bag every night before school, checks Satchel One, and organises all the upcoming homework. These little tasks take barely any time, but allow for a peaceful mind.

Manage Your Workload

“I started using a daily planner to keep on top of all my schoolwork”
Ruby (Yr 7) 

This advice has been echoed by older students too.

“I have found study apps such as Flora or Study Bunny help me to focus and keep off my phone”. 
Patricia (Sixth Former)

An organised space leads to an organised mind, the correct atmosphere for determined learning is undeniably helpful in coping with all schoolwork.

“Remember to take a break after you get home from school, this only has to be half an hour to an hour and helps you recharge”.
Chaitra (Yr 11) 

Coping With Exam Pressure

Lots of our students have been managing exam pressures in this new term, with Yr 10 and 13 mocks and Yr 11 examinations just around the corner; I wanted to know what students did to manage the internal and external pressures of big examinations.

“Each problem or exam is just a stepping stone to bigger goals”.
Isla (Yr 11) 

Isla’s words are so helpful in understanding how your hard work now will help you achieve goals in the future!

“Bad things do not last forever, the exams will be over eventually, the nasty homework assignments will be handed in one way or another, it will not go on forever”.
Emilia (Yr 8)

This is so helpful for any students struggling with continuous assessment during the term and knowing that the assessments will not last forever, this is a comforting thought.

Having a Life Outside of School

School is essential, as it helps shape the future you want to make for yourself; however, it is not everything, and having a life outside of study is so important too. Our students understand this and give some brilliant advice on the subject:

Olivia (Yr 11) stated: “Have a hobby that lets you relax away from revision, so you do not get burnt out”. Balancing your time is vital to help with managing a work / rest schedule,

Hailey (Yr 8) told me how she believes that being organised will lead her to have more time for things she enjoys, she warns students of overworking and the necessity of having something to look forward to at the end of the day.

Succeeding Within all Your Studies

Everyone wants to get the best grades they possibly can. This stress can create a negative working atmosphere that only hinders students with their revision.

Sometimes school can seem far too heavy and busy. I asked some of our students for their best methods for helping them to do the best that they can! Yusra (Yr 11) recommends envisaging what you are working for and then work towards that goal. This helps you to picture yourself in your dream job or perfect university, which can often be the best motivator! Tabitha (Yr 13) told me how she sometimes uses fun pens or stickers to keep her learning fun, as well as making to-do lists to manage her busy schedule. She went on to say that a nice drink helps to bring her some calm, and enjoying the little parts of her day helps her to manage the bigger picture!

All this wonderful advice was summarised by Ele Breeze, our Head Student:

“When starting a new year or new term, we get a second opportunity to start afresh, which allows us to pick up new habits, change the way we think, and adopt new, more positive mindsets when considering the future”!
 

 

This advice is so helpful and comforting, showing us that each new term can be a time to try new study methods and make new friends, as well as it being a vital period to develop as a person, and take this opportunity to develop the skills and routines you need to cope with what life throws at you!