A guide for families: supporting your child’s wellbeing amidst exams and university applications

Throughout my career as a school counsellor helping students open pathways to the world’s top universities, I’ve worked closely with many young people as they’ve navigated the pressures of exams, applications, and making major decisions about their future. I’ve seen firsthand how intense and emotional this period can be.

One factor that consistently makes a difference is the role their families play. The support students receive at home is just as vital as the guidance they get at school.

While career counsellors and teachers are there to guide students academically and professionally, I believe it’s the partnership between school and home that creates the most stable and encouraging environment, and one where students can truly thrive.

Partnering with your school

During this time of year, the pressure to perform academically can cause heightened anxiety. That’s why we have career counsellors and support teachers who work closely with students on practical skills like organisation, time management, and future planning. However, when parents and guardians also reinforce

these strategies at home — helping with schedules, encouraging study breaks, and promoting healthy routines — it helps students feel supported on all fronts.

Building trust through open communication

Trust is the foundation of effective support. Our counsellors build strong relationships with students, not just to discuss grades or goals, but to understand them as individuals. Families can mirror this approach by fostering open conversations at home. Listening without judgment and encouraging children to share their thoughts helps them feel heard and supported.

Prioritising mental and emotional health

Mental health and emotional wellbeing are just as important as academic success. Empathetic conversations with your child, and with your school’s support team, lets them know they’re heard and that their feelings are validated. When children know they have a dependable support network both at school and at home, they build resilience and confidence; these key traits will serve them well in both current challenges and future pursuits.

Defining success on individual terms

Success doesn’t look the same for every student. Some may follow traditional academic paths, while others pursue creative or vocational interests.By embracing your child’s individual journey and working collaboratively with teachers and counsellors, you help create a safety net that makes the academic process less overwhelming and more empowering.

How families can make a lasting impact

Whether you are a family in the St Andrews community or another Nord Anglia school worldwide, your involvement makes a lasting impact. Here are five actionable tips:

1. Stay connected with your school

Maintain regular communication with your child’s teachers and counsellors. A united approach ensures consistent support across school and home.

2. Create a supportive environment at home

Encourage healthy routines, balanced schedules, and regular breaks. A calm home environment helps reduce stress and boosts focus.

3. Listen without judgment

Be a safe space for your child to express their worries or doubts. Sometimes, just being heard is the most powerful support you can offer.

4. Celebrate effort, not just outcomes

Recognise hard work and progress, regardless of results. This builds resilience and reinforces a growth mindset.

5. Embrace your child’s individual journey

Every student’s path is unique. Support your child in exploring their interests and passions, even if their goals look different from others’.

By choosing a Nord Anglia school, you’re joining a global community that values academic excellence, emotional wellbeing, and future readiness. With the right support at home and at school, every student has the opportunity to grow with confidence and discover their own path forward.