The Rise of Student Anxiety in Schools – What Teachers Can Do

As exam season approaches, student anxiety in schools becomes more visible and for many pupils, it’s more than just nerves. The pressures of academic performance, social comparison, and uncertainty about the future are contributing to a sharp rise in anxiety across all key stages.

For teachers both supply and permanent understanding how to recognise and respond to student anxiety in schools is now a key part of the role. Whether you’re leading a classroom long-term or stepping in for the day, your approach can make a meaningful difference.

Why Are We Seeing More Student Anxiety in Schools?

Several overlapping factors are contributing to this rise:

Academic pressure intensified by post-COVID learning gaps
Social media influence reinforcing unrealistic expectations
Constant comparison and fear of failure
Lack of control, especially for students with additional needs or challenging home environments

While this might not be new territory for educators, what is new is the scale and intensity. And it often presents in subtle ways.

Spotting the Signs of Student Anxiety in Schools

Not all students will say “I’m anxious.” Instead, you might notice:

Withdrawing from group activities
Sudden irritability or outbursts
Constant self-criticism
Perfectionism or refusal to complete tasks unless “just right”
Physical symptoms—headaches, stomach aches, or restlessness
Repeatedly asking for reassurance
Being alert to these signs allows for earlier support—and more compassionate teaching.

What You Can Do (Even in a Short-Term Role)

Whether you’re a full-time class teacher or a daily cover supervisor, here are a few practical strategies to support student anxiety in schools:

Create calm where you can.
A predictable, structured lesson with clear expectations can ease anxiety. Avoid unnecessary surprises or changes if possible.

Use positive reinforcement.
Praise effort, not just outcomes. Students need to know that trying is enough.

Normalise feelings.
Let students know it’s okay to feel nervous. Brief check-ins at the start of lessons can help them feel seen.

Avoid public pressure.
If a student refuses to speak or take part, don’t force them in front of peers. Quiet one-to-one support is often more effective.

Keep communication open.
If you notice patterns of anxious behaviour, discreetly pass this on to form tutors or safeguarding leads. Never assume someone else already knows.

Resources for Teachers Supporting Student Anxiety in Schools

Supporting, Not Solving
You don’t have to be a counsellor but you can be a calm, consistent presence. That alone can offer reassurance to students who feel overwhelmed. As student anxiety in schools becomes an increasingly common challenge, teachers who are aware and responsive can have a lasting impact both during exam season and beyond.

Operam Education is committed to supporting educators at every stage of their journey because safeguarding student wellbeing starts with informed, supported staff.

Read our recent safeguarding briefing on online influences affecting student behaviour.