Learner Shannon van Tonder says she feels a mix of stress, confidence, and anxiety as the final examinations approach. “I’m not as stressed as I was for my prelims, because I’ve studied the work for my June exams and my prelims. So, I’m feeling a lot more confident than I did for my June exams and my prelims.”

There is a lot of pressure that comes with matric exams, both from learners themselves and their parents. Maya Marsden says much of the pressure she experiences comes from within.

“I am blessed to have parents who are just happy if I do my best, but I set very high goals for myself. This sometimes can do more harm than good because it just puts unnecessary pressure on me. I also really want to make my teachers and my family proud.”

St Patrick’s CBC head Francis Hloma adds learners also face pressure about what comes next after matric, including university expectations, course choices, and bursary opportunities. Some are still uncertain about what they want to pursue after school.

“There are social elements which are also a big source of pressure. Learners compare themselves to their peers and what they see on social media.”

Some learners find ways to manage their stress through their daily routines. Sebastian Goncalves says he usually studies for 45 minutes before taking a 15-minute break. He also takes walks, reads, or plays the guitar when he needs to reset.

Rest is an important part of effective studying, as the brain cannot operate at its full capacity if a learner is constantly exhausted. “People need to have adequate sleep, eat properly; they also need to do physical activities, and take short breaks,” says Hloma.

Teachers also play a vital role during this period by ensuring learners understand what they need to prepare for their examinations. “There is a lot of revision that the teachers do to guide the learners through past exam paper practice, and also give feedback and opportunities for learners to ask questions.”

The availability of the internet has also made it easier for learners to interact with teachers online, reducing the need for face-to-face lessons. “If teachers are available in any form, then learners know that they are not alone and can be supported at any time,” he adds.

Ilhan Mohamed says setting personal goals for her subject averages helps her stay motivated. She is also looking forward to relaxing at the beach after the examinations.

Hloma urges learners to focus on what they can control, avoid comparing themselves with others, and ask for help when needed. He emphasises that there are many opportunities beyond matric examinations.

“Matric results do not determine a young person’s entire worth or future. To parents, our children need to work very hard and give everything they can so that we can be proud of their achievement.”

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa cvs

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