Being involved in sports doesn’t harm GCSE performance

Research by Huddersfield University for The Headmasters’ and Headmistresses Conference  has shown that students shouldn’t be discouraged from playing sports, in the run-up to exams as there is no negative effect on exam results.

The study – reported in The Telegraph – found that students shouldn’t abandon sports in the run up to GCSE or A-level exams. But more than that, the findings showed that students who take part in competitive activities such as badminton, cricket, hockey, netball, rugby and tennis were ‘happier, psychologically healthier, less anxious and more resilient and robust’.

Professor Clough, head the Psychology department at Huddersfield University who carried out the research said “balance is important, and sport plays a vital role in preparing them for the pressures of the exam room. It can even help some young people thrive when in stressful situations.”

Providing structure around GCSE revision, hobbies, social and downtime is central to The Study Buddy approach.

Start with a comprehensive list of what you need to do to be exam ready. Then build your revision around your other commitments. Working one week at a time you benefit from seeing your progress through units of work. The coverage helps to build confidence too.

While these exams are important, so too are maintaining a healthy mental and physical wellbeing.