Stress advice for East Lancashire pupils
4:44pm Wednesday 14th May 2008
SCHOOLS across East Lancashire are giving pupils tips on how to avoid stress during one of the most pressurised times of their life yet.
During revision and exams, be they GCSEs, A levels or SATS, stress and anxiety are very common problems for most students.
And the key messages in schools across East Lancashire are to not panic, and stay healthy.
Some schools, such as Hameldon Community College in Burnley, distribute information booklets for students about how to minimise stress and stay focused during the exam season, which ahs just begun.
In others, staff advise students verbally, or it is covered in the curriculum.
Lynda Taylor, deputy head at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School in Waterfoot, said: "We provide booklets for our younger pupils about dealing with exams, and for yeras 10 and 11 exam stress is covered in citizenship lessons.
"The main things to remember is sleeping and eating properly, as well as reminding them that exams are not the end of the world."
Simon Corns, headmaster at Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Blackburn, said: "We cover examination stress as part of our complementary studies programme.
"Our focus is very much on all-round involvement in school life and we believe our extra-curricular programme, which includes plenty of exercise and fresh air, is the best way to keep examinations in context so that pupils, by and large, do not become stressed and can take them in their stride.
"They know they must strive for the highest standards, but we are not an academic hothouse and we make sure we keep things in proportion."
Young people who feel things are getting on top of them are urged to talk to somebody they trust about their worries, be it a teacher, relative or friend.
The Samaritans are also on hand for those who feel they have no-one else to talk to.
The charity, which has branches in New Park Street, Blackburn, and Market Square, Nelson, provides confidential emotional support for young people, and advice on how to remain physically well.
Contact the Samaritans on 01254 662424 or 01282 694929, or the general number 08457 909090.