Exam clash risk looms but students remain optimistic
Educators offer support and stress relief to students as they write GCSE, A Level and AS Level exams
As GCSE, A Levels, and AS Levels exams are in full swing, headteachers report a prevailing sense of optimism among students, despite potential challenges ahead. The primary concern? Managing clashes in exam schedules.
With students opting for courses offered by different exam boards, including Pearson, Edexcel, and Cambridge, which are approved by the Department of Education, the independent nature of each board poses a problem. Some students find themselves facing overlapping exams.
In response, educational institutions are taking proactive steps to mitigate any disadvantages. Measures include advising students to avoid communication with peers who have already completed exams, ensuring a level playing field for all.
Craig Halsall, principal, Reach British School, Abu Dhabi said: “So far, the exams held at Reach British School have gone extremely well. We have not faced any (major) hurdles that have caused our students anxiety or concern.”
Some pupils have had clashes, as the exam timetable is set for the entire country to avoid the possibility of sharing questions and answers online.
“We’ve had only one or two small issues regarding examination clashes which were beyond the school’s control and have been flagged with the exam board for the future,” added Halsall.
The GCSE, AS level and A level exams began on May 15 with the final exam scheduled for June 27.
Halsall said they have supported students through various means, including revision sessions to enhance knowledge and exam techniques, and collaborating closely with them to refine time management skills.
Some principals have scheduled school prize day just before the exams to show students that achievements can come from sources other than exam results.
Nicole Haynes, principal/ceo of GEMS Westminster School, Ras Al Khaimah, acknowledged the potential challenges during the exam season, such as clashes due to different exam boards, managing multiple exams, ensuring punctuality and proper equipment, as well as dealing with accidents, emergencies, or illness, for which special considerations can be requested from the exam board to still award an exam grade if needed.
Meanwhile, schools have amplified mental health support services to ensure that students feel emotionally supported.
Counsellors, mentors, and wellbeing coordinators are at hand to provide guidance, emotional support, and stress management techniques.
Alan Forbes, head of Secondary, Star International School, Mirdif said: “Students have also been busy practising and revising at home. All subject areas have specific intervention strategies to encourage all students of all abilities to achieve their personal best. In our school, lessons will continue for each subject until the final exam for that subject is taken.”
Principals said the GCSE and A-level exams have been an exhilarating journey thus far, filled with both challenges and triumphs.
James Mcdonald Principal/ CEO of GEMS Wesgreen International School – Sharjah said: “We have provided specialised support to aid students during this crucial period. We have organised extra study sessions, revision workshops, and one-on-one tutoring to cater to each student’s individual needs.”
Schools are also embracing innovative technologies to monitor student progress. Data analytics tools are used to identify areas of strength and development, enabling targeted intervention and personalised feedback.
Emmanuel Keteku, Principal/ CEO, GEMS Winchester School — Fujairah says, “We have a committed school counsellor and wellbeing team, who have set up a quiet room for students that works like a chill-out zone. Students can head there to decompress or to study. It is filled with comfy chairs and cushions and quiet music so they can relax into their day. We also attended a GEMS wellbeing conference where our students learnt how to pot plants, do mindful colouring, meditate and many other activities to aid children in managing their emotions and their examination stresses.”
We’ve had only one or two small issues regarding exam clashes which were beyond the school’s control.”
Craig Halsall
Principal, Reach British School