Exam season is here, and Schools North East is behind you all the way!
Can you believe it? This week marks the start of GCSE exams (yes, already!), and from Monday, pupils across the country will begin their SATs assessments too. For schools, families and young people alike, exam season is always a significant moment in the academic calendar.
At Schools North East, we want to take this opportunity to send a huge good luck to every school leader, teacher, support staff member and, of course, every pupil across the North East
We know just how much work goes into preparing for this period. The early mornings, revision sessions, interventions, encouragement, pastoral care, planning and support all add up to an enormous team effort, and that doesn’t go unnoticed.
Our schools continue to show incredible dedication to helping children and young people achieve their very best, and we have every faith in them.
More than just results
It goes without saying that exams and assessments matter, and we know pupils want to do well. However, it’s just as important to remember that results are not the only measure of success.
Success can look different for every child and young person, and school staff across the North East play an incredibly important role in supporting and celebrating those various achievements every day.
For some pupils, success might mean walking confidently into an exam hall despite battling anxiety. For others, it could be attending school consistently after a difficult period, building resilience, asking for help when they need it, or simply trying their absolute best.
Schools across the North East support young people in countless ways that go far beyond grades and league tables. The care, encouragement and opportunities provided by our education staff every single day help shape confident, capable and compassionate young people. And that undoubtedly deserves recognition too.
A region full of determination
One thing we know for certain is that North East schools are filled with determination, talent and heart.
From primary classrooms preparing for SATs to secondary schools supporting GCSE pupils through revision and exams, there is so much to be proud of already. The commitment shown by education professionals throughout the region continues to make a lasting difference to children and young people’s lives.
To every member of school staff helping pupils through this busy period: thank you. Your hard work is seen, valued, and appreciated. And to every pupil sitting exams over the coming weeks: believe in yourselves. You have worked hard, and we are all rooting for you.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “Exam season can bring pressure and nerves, but it’s also a time when we see the very best of our communities. We’re incredibly proud of all of our schools and wish every pupil the very best of luck over the coming weeks.”
Share your stories with us
We’d also love to hear from schools during exam season. Whether it’s a story about pupils supporting one another, creative wellbeing initiatives, moments of resilience, staff going above and beyond, or celebrating successes big and small, please do share them with us!
We may feature your stories in our weekly update, across our social media channels, or in future Schools North East content so we can continue highlighting the brilliant work happening in schools across the region. Submit a story here.
Good luck to everyone over the coming weeks. The entire North East is behind you.