17 year old unable to get in for mocks due to anxiety

[lu9months]

my son had anxiety last year coming out of covid, and missed a few months of school and several exams. he started 6th form and has had a great year, making friends, planning a university course, etc. he was fine til a few weeks ago, then his anxiety and panic has returned and he is unable to go in to do his mocks. I feel so sad for him, his whole future and all he planned are coming crashing down, if he cant do exams. he is so bright and has so much potential. I wish there was an alternative to exams . does anyone have any thoughts, experience or ideas? im feeling devastated, though obviously not showing him that and just trying to support him. we are meeting the school, but if he won't go into do exams (even in a separate room) there is not a lot they can do

I'm so sorry. Has he tried CBT / mindfulness? I expect you have said on other threads but my memory is like a sieve.

He could semi-avoid exams by switching to a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma which will be mainly assignments but will still have some exams. You can still go on to university with one though more restricted on courses.

A different option would be to try to get an apprenticeship in his chosen field and work up.

Or you plough on and hope that in a year hell be better.

It is so difficult, you/he can only make a decision based on the info you have now, and hope for the best.

For the real exams home invigilation is possible if DS thinks he would be able to do the exams at home.