COVID: warning of worrying levels of anxiety among NI schoolchildren
Last updated 8th Oct 2020
Parents across Northern Ireland fear uncertainty over the future format of exams along with ongoing covid restrictions could lead to a mental health crisis among schoolchildren
According to Parentkind there are already worrying levels of anxiety among families across Northern Ireland
And among the shock findings of a snap survey revealed today 98% of parents have concerns about the pandemic's impact on their kids' readiness for exams
Parentkind chief Jayne Thompson says it's a perfect storm
“Preparing for exams is a hugely important factor for success,” she said.
“Feeling as ready as possible on the day can make all the difference in determining the results that can influence the course of a young person’s career.
“Parents and students know this, and we are already hearing worrying levels of despondency and anxiety from affected families. Continuing uncertainty is causing them stress and concern.”
And she appealed to the decision makers for clarity on what parents and children can expect from exams going forward.
“Parentkind calls on policymakers and exam boards to give urgent clarity about exam arrangements for 2021 to avoid repeating the mayhem of 2020,” she said.
“Parents don’t have the solutions, but they are seeking answers and clear guidance from government, so that they know what to expect and are well-placed to give their child whatever support they need. Parents want to help their children, but the longer this period of limbo drags on, the less time will be available for vital exam preparation, which risks creating panic.”
Other findings from the snap poll shows that 87% of parents say that the uncertainty over exam arrangements is having a negative impact on their child's psychological well-being.
The poll also found that only 1% of parents favoured "Exams based on the full curriculum" as their preferred option for how exam grades should be awarded next year.