Guest Author: Jon Ford, youHQ
As schools wind down for the summer, it’s easy to assume that students will look forward to the well-earned rest. But for thousands of young people across the UK, the summer brings a new kind of stress — the long wait for exam results that may determine their next steps in education or work.
As we mark World Wellbeing Week, it’s a crucial time to help support students who may be facing uncertainty about what their future may hold. If anything, this period can be one of the most emotionally intense for students — and they need our support more than ever.
Why This Matters to Me
This year, that message hits home for me personally more than ever.
My daughter Beth has just completed her GCSEs after missing nearly 4 years of school while we searched for a learning environment which could support her neurodiverse needs. There were times we didn’t know if formal education would even be possible again. But thanks to the dedicated staff at a truly life-changing SEN school, Beth sat every single exam.
Now she, like so many others, is in the waiting game — hoping for five key grades to secure her place at sixth form.
Behind every grade is a story. A young person navigating pressure, identity, self-worth, and uncertainty. As educators, parents, and support staff, it’s our responsibility to create the conditions where students feel safe, seen and supported — not just during term time, but in these uncertain in-between moments too.
Five Ways to Support Students Waiting for Results
Whether you’re a teacher, a school leader, or a parent, here are five practical, compassionate ways to support young people over the summer:
- Remind them they are more than their grades
Their value isn’t tied to a number or a letter. Reinforce their strengths, effort and unique qualities that go beyond academic performance. - Encourage a gentle summer routine
A simple structure can make a huge difference to mental wellbeing. Daily walks, regular sleep or creative projects can provide stability and calm. - Keep conversations open and judgement-free
Let them share their fears and hopes without rushing to reassure or solve. Listening — really listening — can be one of the most powerful things we do. - Help them explore options, without fear
Not every path is linear. If the results don’t go to plan, help them see the many routes forward and remind them that one set of grades doesn’t define a life. - Celebrate the milestone — not just the outcome
Sitting those exams was a huge achievement. Mark it. Acknowledge their resilience and courage, regardless of what the results say.
Giving Students a Voice in Safeguarding and Wellbeing
At youHQ, our mission is to help every student feel heard — not just in the classroom, but across their whole school journey. As the student voice of safeguarding, we give young people a space to express how they’re really feeling, track their own progress, and get support when they need it most.
When integrated with CPOMS StudentSafe, schools can now access a complete safeguarding and wellbeing solution — making it easier than ever to take a proactive, joined-up approach to student support.
Special Offer for CPOMS Schools
As part of World Wellbeing Week, we’re offering 50% off the first year of youHQ for all schools using CPOMS that haven’t yet enquired, if they confirm before the end of July.
It’s our way of supporting schools to put wellbeing at the heart of what they do — not just at results time, but all year round.
If you’d like to learn more about how youHQ integrates with CPOMS or access this offer, get in touch with our team today.
