At Educate Excellence, we know that exams can bring pressure for students of all ages. Whether a child is preparing for Year 2 SATs, revising for a Year 6 assessment or sitting GCSEs, it is normal to feel a mix of nerves and worry. A little stress can be helpful, it shows that something matters, but too much can affect learning, sleep and wellbeing.
In this blog, we share simple and effective ways to help students manage exam stress and stay calm, healthy and ready to do their best.
What Does Exam Stress Look Like:
Stress affects people in different ways. Some students may become quiet or withdrawn, while others feel restless, irritable or upset. Common signs include:
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- Worrying often or struggling to relax
- Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite
- Negative self-talk such as “I can’t do it”
- Avoiding revision or feeling overwhelmed
- Physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches
It is important for parents, carers and teachers to notice these signs early and respond with calm support.
Why Managing Stress Matters:
Students who learn how to manage stress early on build emotional resilience and healthier study habits. This helps them:
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- Stay focused and remember more during revision
- Feel more confident and in control on exam days
- Recover quickly from setbacks and challenges
- Maintain motivation over time
At Educate Excellence, we believe that success comes not just from knowledge, but from mindset. A calm student is far more likely to perform well and enjoy the learning journey.
Mental Wellbeing Tips for Students of All Ages:
1. Start early and break it down
Last-minute revision often leads to panic. Encourage children to revise in small steps over time. Short, focused sessions are more effective than long, stressful ones.
2. Create a balanced study routine
Include regular breaks, sleep, meals and exercise in the study timetable. Rest is not wasted time, it helps the brain absorb and remember information.
3. Practise calming techniques
Simple strategies such as slow breathing, stretching or closing the eyes for one minute can help settle the body and mind. Use these during study sessions and before tests.
4. Talk about how you feel
Encourage students to speak openly about worries. Parents and tutors can help reframe negative thoughts into more helpful ones such as “I’m prepared” or “I will try my best.”
5. Focus on progress, not perfection
Help children set realistic goals and recognise small achievements. Remind them that effort matters more than getting every answer right.
6. Avoid comparison
Every learner is different. Comparing results or revision methods with others can create unnecessary stress. Focus on personal growth and improvement.
Extra Support for Primary School Students:
Younger children may not have the words to describe how they feel, so they show stress through behaviour. Support them by:
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- Keeping routines steady and predictable
- Practising test-style questions in a fun, relaxed way
- Offering lots of praise and reassurance
- Reminding them that tests are just one part of learning
Our tutors at Educate Excellence use gentle guidance to build confidence during SATs preparation, helping children stay calm and ready.
Extra Support for Secondary School Students:
Older students may face more pressure from exams and future plans. Support them by:
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- Helping with revision planning and time management
- Encouraging balance with hobbies, movement and rest
- Checking in regularly without pressure
- Supporting healthy sleep, eating and screen habits
At Educate Excellence, we support secondary students through academic coaching, emotional check-ins and stress-reducing study strategies.
How Educate Excellence Supports Student Wellbeing:
We believe that a positive mindset is just as important as subject knowledge. Our tutors:
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- Create calm, focused learning spaces
- Talk openly about stress and confidence
- Teach practical tools for managing pressure
- Celebrate both academic effort and emotional growth
Whether your child is sitting SATs, GCSEs or in-between assessments, we help them prepare with skill and self-belief.
Every Student Can Learn to Manage Stress:
Stress is part of life, but it does not have to stop students from succeeding. With encouragement, structure and the right tools, children and teenagers can learn to face exams with calm and confidence.
If your child needs extra help with exam preparation or emotional wellbeing, Educate Excellence is here to support them. Our tutors work with each student to build strong foundations, focused habits and a healthy mindse, so they feel ready, not rushed.