GCSEs: Why safe spaces are so important during exam season

Posted: 27th May 2026

It goes without saying that the school exam period is a stressful time. But with the right support, young people can feel calmer and better equipped to cope with the pressures that GCSEs can bring.

For many young people, exam stress goes far beyond revision timetables and practice papers. Worry, anxiety and the fear of failure can quickly begin to affect mental health and wellbeing, which is why safe spaces are so important during this time.

According to a recent study by University College London, the pressure to achieve at school at age 15 is linked to depression and self-harm – with depressive symptoms continuing for years into adulthood.

At SELFA, we make sure our young people are supported emotionally during these challenging periods. We also help children build resilience and provide a safe space for them to decompress and talk about worries.

How we create safe spaces at SELFA

During exam season, young people can often feel overwhelmed by expectations from school, social media and even themselves. Having access to safe spaces where they feel listened to, supported and accepted can make a huge difference.

These spaces give young people the chance to step away from pressure, regulate their emotions and talk openly about how they are feeling without fear of judgement. They can also help reduce feelings of isolation and remind young people that they do not have to cope alone.

All of our groups provide children and young people with a safe, welcoming and inclusive space where they can talk about worries. Our staff are always supportive and able to respond to what each young person needs. Young people are also encouraged to share their thoughts and have a say, giving them some control and choice that they don’t always get in everyday life.

We also spend time helping people build positive relationships, so young people can form friendships and a sense of belonging. “We play games that promote teamwork, and practise being kind to each other and ourselves,” says Nicole Morgan, a children and young people’s worker at SELFA.

We also give them a chance to switch off from school work with fun, creative activities!

And being trauma-informed means we empathetically listen and understand what people have been through.

 Maya Whitton, SELFA’s Youth Development Worker, says having someone to talk to can make a real difference during exam season.

“Keeping a normal routine can help your mental health and wellbeing, and keep attending clubs if you can,” she says. “For parents, ask what your child needs and how you can help. Make sure they take rest breaks while revising.”

Check out the groups and activities we offer to support wellbeing here.