With derived grade exams coming up next week it's normal for students to be feeling some anxiety and stress.

A number of students have been through my door recently asking for help as they have faced CAA exams this week and seniors preparing for their exams next week.  As part of our pastoral care system we encourage students to seek support, ask their teachers questions, seek feedback and talk with their mentor, dean, the guidance counsellor or senior leaders. 

Some things that help students get through the exam time can include

-Being prepared and organised, knowing what day the exam is being held and revising information well in advance. Setting up a plan and making sure it includes break times and movement/exercise 

-Using resources that can be found online, google classroom,  past exam papers and exemplars

-Having a chat with someone, family members at home, our staff in school, students usually email me for times, or they can pop into my office during intervals to see me and make time. 

-Acknowledging feelings of stress and anxiety, that this can be helpful as our bodies' way of letting us know to get in action mode and do something about it. 

-Healthy habits such as eating nutritious meals and snacks. -Taking a breath, I encourage students when feeling overwhelmed to take a minute or two to focus on their breathing. 

-Sleep it's important to prioritise sleep during this time, sticking to a routine to help students feel rested and focused on their exams.

It was great to be in our Council assembly last Friday and hear our Year 13 leaders speaking with students about our value of PERSEVERANCE. The leaders encouraged students to put one foot in front of the other to get through tough times and also gave guidance around what is coming up in the calendar, communicating the importance of- thinking ahead, an important skill to help students plan and prepare as they head into busy times in school and for the future. 

nga mihi nu

Cath Bloxham

South Otago High School 4180517 extension 210

Guidance Counsellor