GCSE exam stress

frazers mum · 23 Apr 18, 09:56 AM

My son is currently a few weeks away from starting his GCSE's and this morning had a big meltdown about it. He's been a bit jittery up to now, even enquiring about sitting in a smaller group environment whilst doing the exams. He's been up all night worrying, so lack of sleep this morning probably added to the meltdown. I've suggested seeing the Doctor or phoning school, both of which he's said no to. In the past when he's had big events he has had rescue remedy and that helped a little. I just don't know how I can help him and I'm dreading this happening on an Exam day.

jndt · 23 Apr 18, 10:24 AM

My son is also sitting his GCSEs in 3 weeks time. School have just emailed parents revision workshops this morning - better than being at home on study leave and they all tie in with the next days exams. Does his school offer anything like this? I would see if school can help with his anxiety if it continues - sorry not much help but you are not alone.

frazers mum · 23 Apr 18, 12:07 PM

Originally Posted by jdndt

My son is also sitting his GCSEs in 3 weeks time. School have just emailed parents revision workshops this morning - better than being at home on study leave and they all tie in with the next days exams. Does his school offer anything like this? I would see if school can help with his anxiety if it continues - sorry not much help but you are not alone.

They offer weekend extra sessions. Our school will give them a booster timetable throughout the exams, so they can fit in extra revision through that time. Thankyou for your reply.x

loobz · 23 Apr 18, 12:16 PM

I would be tempted to phone the school to let them know of your concerns. If the school aren't aware of a potential problem then they can't put anything in place to help him. Chances are he's not alone with feeling like this and sometimes a general conversation in class (tutor time or PSHE) or an assembly can help.

Liz Paul · 23 Apr 18, 12:17 PM

When my daughter sat her Nat 5s (Scottish equivalent to GCSEs)
she had a timetable for studying. Just 20 mins for each subject and to make sure she had a good break every hour away from the books. Its a horrible time for all of us. Luckily Katherine is in her finial year of school and finishes this Thursday

Off to Uni in September

shona · 23 Apr 18, 12:36 PM

Have a look at the student room forums, there will be a lot of tips for people going through this stress both past and present. I agree you should speak to the school and maybe see if he can take the exams in a smaller group they can provide assistance in certain circumstances.

The Duchess · 23 Apr 18, 06:09 PM

My daughter has been going through the same. I spoke to her head of year and the school have been brilliant. It means they can deal with anything that stresses her at school straight away rather than letting it fester until she gets home