Dr Margaret Coombe offers practical advice on how students, and schools, can reduce stress and boost success
Early revision and past paper practice are indeed key to reducing stress at exam times (Start GCSE and A-level revision in Easter holidays to reduce stress, say teachers, 10 April). Good physical preparation is also a major aid. Regular hours, frequent breaks, exercise, quiet surroundings, at least one day off each week and good food make a huge contribution to exam success. In these troubled times, schools would do well to emphasise these and, if possible, offer breakfasts on exam days. Bananas, low-sugar milkshakes and oaty cereals all help to boost concentration and stave off hunger pangs. Is this another crusade worthy of Marcus Rashford to level the exam playing field for less-advantaged pupils?
Dr Margaret Coombe
Director, Oxford Study Skills Centre
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