The last couple of weeks of the school year are fast approaching. Exams are over and the culmination of learning is drawing to a close as the wind down to the summer holidays begins.

The end of the academic year can bring mixed emotions for everyone. Some students may feel a sense of freedom or release from the pressures of homework and demands from teachers. For others, there may be a concern over not seeing friends as often, or the impending boredom that can come from not having a structured daily routine.

Change is a time of excitement

University and college students who have already finished for the summer may be considering future options such as gap years or getting a job whilst they wait to see if their hard work has paid off. This can cause other emotional struggles if students have to move away and leave friends or family behind, or if exam results are not as expected – but change is also a time of excitement, of new beginnings and opportunities.

Teachers can feel sad when their students move on, after having watched them grow and mature over the past year. But the summer holidays also mean teaching staff can enjoy a well-earned break from curriculum responsibilities and the hectic classroom environment.

Summer holidays can be a blessing or a burden

For parents too, the summer holidays can be a blessing or a burden. For instance, having children in the household who have been agonising over exams and revising furiously may have brought a rise in tensions for several weeks or even months! Hopefully, the summer break can bring relief for the whole family.

For other parents, the onus of providing entertainment for six weeks may weigh heavily on their minds. Also, having kids lingering about the house can be an inconvenience to parents, including the potential effects on normal working patterns or finances. But there are often local events and activities for young people to get involved in over the summer, many of which are low cost or free to attend.

Some families may be going away and looking forward to a relaxing break or fun-filled adventure. Though heading off on a trip can also cause stress – for example remembering to pack everything, arguments in the back of the car, getting to the airport on time... the list goes on.

Whether you or your youngsters are feeling highs or lows this summer, it’s ok; it’s all a natural part of life.

Make some time to chill out and enjoy yourself

Whatever you’re doing over the summer months, make some time to chill out and enjoy the warmer weather – before it’s back to buying new pencil cases and lunchboxes!