Have you noticed some pupils seem more anxious, avoidant or dysregulated at this time of year - even when nothing obvious has changed in the classroom?

In this episode of School Behaviour Secrets, you’ll learn why exams, transition days, new classes, secondary transfer and end-of-year changes can increase anxiety for pupils.

You’ll discover why some children aren’t just reacting to what’s happening now - they’re reacting to what they think is coming next. Plus we’ll look at how anticipatory anxiety can show up as behaviour, from reassurance-seeking and withdrawal to refusal, irritability, silliness or emotional outbursts.

Most importantly, you’ll learn a simple three-step approach to support pupils before anxiety reaches crisis point.

If you work with pupils who struggle around exams, transition or change, this episode will help you understand what’s happening underneath the behaviour - and what to do next.

Important links:

Get your FREE Beacon School Support guide to helping children manage their strong emotions

Get our FREE SEND Behaviour Handbook: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/send-handbook

Download other FREE behaviour resources for use in school: https://beaconschoolsupport.co.uk/resources.php

School leaders: Join us at the National SEMH Conference (October 2026)
It's a whole day focused on the real SEMH, behaviour and inclusion pressures facing schools - and what leaders can do next. Plus, right now you can get Super Early Bird tickets at £250 off - find out more and book your place here.