How Can You Help Students Deal with Results Day Nerves?

For students, Results Day can feel like everything is riding on a single piece of paper. For you, it’s the culmination of months (and sometimes years) of teaching, mentoring, and encouraging your students to believe in themselves.

Regardless of the outcome, the way you support students on this day can make a lasting difference. Here’s how you can help students manage the pressure, and how to prepare for next year, too.

1. Reassure and Reframe Expectations

Many students internalise the idea that their grades are the sole measure of success. While academic outcomes matter, they don’t tell the full story. In the lead-up to results day, simple, honest conversations can go a long way in easing that pressure.

Encourage students to focus on their effort, resilience, and growth, not just their final grade. Help them understand that results can open doors, but remember to remind them that they are not the only path forward.

2. Be a Calm and Consistent Presence

On the day itself, your energy sets the tone. Keeping a calm, positive presence can provide a source of stability for students who may be feeling overwhelmed.

It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about being available, approachable, and compassionate when they need someone to turn to. A reassuring tone, eye contact, and simply making time for a short chat can make all the difference.

3. Look Out for the Quiet Ones

Not every student will be vocal about how they’re feeling. Some may celebrate openly, while others may withdraw, minimise their achievements, or hide their disappointment.

Keep an eye on those who aren’t saying much. A discreet check-in can open the door for support, even if it’s just a quiet conversation in a hallway or a moment to decompress.

4. Create Safe, Supportive Spaces

Results Day can be loud, busy, and emotionally intense. Consider setting up a space where students can quietly reflect, with pastoral staff nearby and available if needed.

A designated wellbeing area or quiet room can make a big difference, especially for students processing difficult news or unsure about next steps. Make sure information about next-stage options (like clearing, apprenticeships, or resits) is also on hand.

5. Debrief and Reflect for Next Year

Once the dust settles, take time as a team to reflect. What support was most effective? Where were the gaps? Which students needed more than you were able to give in the moment?

Capturing these insights now can inform how you approach the next academic year, including the pastoral and academic planning that takes place long before results day arrives again.

How are you preparing to support your students today? And what will you take forward into the next academic year? Share your thoughts and useful tips with us!