Support for post-16 students
An evidence-based programme to help students feel calmer, more focused and better able to manage stress, in school and beyond.
Helping every student thrive.
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
Designed for students studying A levels, BTECs or other post-16 qualifications, it teaches five simple, science-backed strategies, our “five secrets”, that students 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, it fits easily into tutor time, enrichment or small groups, and 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
- Watch weekly, or whenever it suits
- Runs in tutor time, PSHE, enrichment or small groups
- For Year 12 and 13 students
- Works 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 easing pressure on pastoral teams.
Proven impact
Originally piloted with over 2,000 students at The Sixth Form College Farnborough, where staff and students described the response as “phenomenal” and “a game changer”.
“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
Hear from Farnborough
“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 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 staff and students is well known, and becoming more acute. The work of Maria Brosnan and Dr Carla Stanton is an important opportunity to learn how to regulate our own responses to stress.”
Bill Watkin,
CEO, Sixth Form College Association