How is your dc finding the transition from YR12 to YR13?

[Dancergirl]

Dd is in Year 13 and finding this year a massive change. She's at boarding school and I am worried about her.

She says her work has gone downhill, she's worried she's peaked too early, she's not sleeping well and is very stressed.

I think the combination of the work and applying for uni is getting to her. I'm going to speak to head of boarding today and maybe arrange a visit up there.

How are your dc finding Year 13?

Haven't done A levels and Uni, so not much help.

But have you/she considered her taking a year out and only applying for uni after she has her results? That could remove a big chunk of stress maybe?

DD had something similar in that year 12 was very exciting for her, new experiences, started boarding, new subjects and loved it. Year 13 was more unsettling as suddenly a number of people she had been friends with in the year above left and it became suddenly all about A level grades and uni applications and leaving school and next steps. A gap year could be a good thing in that she could concentrate on just enjoying her final year and getting some good results. Or is it possible to reduce the workload for eg if she is doing 4 subjects and an EPQ then cutting one out ? Definitely speak to the school as they will have seen this before

Tbh dd loving it loving her subjects and likes all her teachers this year.and looking round unis etc. She's dreading results day though!

My DD is also in Y13 and is boarding.

There is such a lot of pressure on them this year, and depending on the school, there’s also pressure to get the uni applications in early too. Assuming you know where you want to go and what you want to study!

I think it’s a very good idea to talk to the school and get their input, there might be a particular deadline coming up - DD has coursework on top of the usual prep so that’s adding an extra pressure but is only short term.

Is it possible for your DD to come home for a weekend before half term? Being away from the school environment can help to regain a sense of perspective.

Thank you. I spoke to Head of Boarding over the weekend who was great and very supportive. She said it is very common in Year 13 and lots of students are feeling the pressure. She advised me not to rush up mid-week straight away because dd might think it would mean I am Really Worried. She is going to speak to Head of Sixth Form and some of her subject teachers first who will ring me this week.

I might take dd3 up for a visit on Saturday however. The trip is paint balling which dd hates so would love some company.

I did suggest to dd that she doesn't apply to university this year, or apply for a deferred place. But I really think it's just the pressure of Year 13 that's the problem. So many people I've spoken to have said that university is easier than A Levels.

Hoping it improves soon x