Consolation and hope in a time of crisis extension project: Listening to Year 10 students’ response to covid-related losses

Key findings

1. Immaturity and weirdness: Looking back on their experience, students said of the experience that the strict routines were reminiscent of primary school, and sometimes weird and overwhelming. This impacted students with one professional commenting the students were still a bit like primary pupils.

2. Deeper bonding friendships: Students said the social bubbles had a marked impact on friendship groups long term, leading to deeper relationships, and connection.

3. Student behaviour: Students felt their behaviour was good compared to younger pupils, although they were honest about misbehaviour.

4. Cohort and herd: Senior leaders reported a cohort unity and herd mentality in
this group.

5. Some subjects suffered more: The students felt that some subjects suffered more from the pandemic in terms of GCSE choice. This was especially where social distancing rules significantly limited the practical elements of science, food tech, art and design, drama, music, and IT.

6. Students spoke positively about the chaplain as a guide, a spiritual and life advisor: someone they would consider going to for support, along with other pastoral leaders. This included students who were not religious.

7. Students felt they could seek help from their chaplains: especially in areas of mental health or spirituality irrespective of religious belief.

8. Chaplains and other school staff created an atmosphere of encouragement, listening and hope for students: to see that they can overcome this challenge with lots of positive encouragement