Your exam results don’t define you. Remember: you are amazing, capable and worthy – whatever your results!

Yep, it’s that time of the year again where students hold their breath as they wait for their exam results!  As a tutor, I’m also anxiously waiting to see how my students did on the day!

There’s so much pressure on young people. Some would say this is getting worse, but I’d dispute that. I felt that pressure some …… years ago. Pressure from school, parents, peers and ourselves. It can lead to a toxic mix. I always tell my students, if they work hard and apply themselves, working to the best of their ability, that’s good. Their future isn’t just resting on those exam results. Certainly, good grades are often the entry ticket to college or university, but as humans, we are so much more than some letters on a piece of paper or on our screens. If you don’t get what you’d hoped, here are some easy ways to deal with the disappointment.

Do think about the bigger picture: sports, music, drama, photography, technology, dance, hobbies, interests, families …. the list goes on and on. All these activities build skills that you can’t learn from a 2 year learning programme. Leadership, teamwork, listening skills, empathy, being creative, self- discipline, a positive work ethic, great communication, being articulate, confident, a healthy self-esteem. None of these are measured by grades, but are vital to growing up and being able to handle difficult situations, make the right choices or achieve something fantastic!

So, as summer 2022 draws to a close, celebrate all your achievements, but remember: you are amazing, capable and worthy and that’s something which will accompany you for the rest of your life.