Support for post-16 students
For those feeling anxious, overwhelmed or struggling to cope. This flexible, evidence-based programme helps students feel calmer, more focused and better able to manage stress, in school and beyond.
Secrets to Your Peak Performance
Students learn simple, proven tools to manage stress, build resilience and feel more in control.
With rising anxiety and poor mental health, this programme offers real, structured support that fits easily into sixth form and college life.
What the programme offers
Secrets to Your Peak Performance is designed for students studying A levels, BTECs or other post-16 qualifications.
They learn five simple, science-backed strategies – our “five secrets”- that they can start using straight away to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Regulate emotions and build resilience
- Improve focus, motivation and self-awareness
- Perform at their best in a way that works for them.
It’s especially helpful for students who don’t meet the threshold for formal support, but still need something structured to stay on track.
Delivered through short, engaging videos and a step-by-step facilitator guide, the programme fits easily into tutor time, enrichment or small group sessions. Sessions can be used flexibly across Year 12 and 13.
The programme in a nutshell
- Eight flexible 30-minute sessions with video content and guided discussion
- Designed to be watched weekly, or whenever it suits
- Easily delivered in tutor time, PSHE, enrichment or small groups
- Suitable for Year 12 and 13 students
- Can be used as an intervention programme
- Helps students manage stress, sleep and emotional wellbeing
- Step-by-step facilitator guide included
Supports student wellbeing and academic performance while reducing pressure on pastoral teams.
Proven impact
Originally piloted with over 2,000 students at The Sixth Form College Farnborough, the response was described as “phenomenal” and “a game changer” by staff and students alike.
“I loved the programme, especially the session on stress recognition and positive thinking. It helped me take back control of my experience.”
Ellen, Year 13 student
“Now when I see a problem, I jump on it really early. Even like revision, I started really early and built it up. It’s all about the mindset.”
Will, Year 13 student
More voices from the classroom
“The impact on the students with this programme has been absolutely phenomenal, particularly at this time when we’re in a mental health epidemic.”
Emily Ludford
Lead Tutor, The Sixth Form College Farnborough
“This programme has helped me put things into my routine that take out stress. Everything has a more calm aroma around it.”
Year 13 Students,
The Sixth Form College Farnborough
“It’s a very, very powerful tool to help students become more aware of their emotions, and manage them, particularly at these peaks. Honestly, I think it is a game changer.”
Harry Meyer Wulff
Personal Tutor, The Sixth Form College Farnborough
Wider context
“The extent of mental health problems experienced by both staff and students is well-known. These problems are becoming more acute and complex and are affecting more and more people.
The work of Maria Brosnan and Dr. Carla Stanton represents an important opportunity for us to learn how to regulate our own responses to stress.”
Bill Watkin,
CEO, Sixth Form College Association