School Archives

Problems at school

Posted on 08/02/202106/14/2022 by rebecca

Everyone has a different experience of school.

Most students go through some ups and downs throughout the year. Experiencing problems at school is not unusual for many young people.

When difficulties get on top of us, it can be like a domino effect. One domino falls over and all the rest seem to pile up. It’s OK to have mixed feelings about school, as everyone has their good days and bad days. Whether you’re having problems with schoolwork, friends, or fitting in, you are not alone.

Some common problems in school and solutions:

Difficulties with school work
Friendships at school
Not getting on with teachers
Anxiety in school
Bullying in school

Goal setting

Posted on 06/28/202111/24/2021 by holly

We are often asked about our ‘goals in life’ when it comes to careers or discussions about the future. ‘Squad goals’ or ‘couple goals’ appear in many Instagram posts, but what does this really mean? Are personal goals something we want to be, or want to have?

In this article, you will find help to set and achieve your goals:

What is a goal?
The purpose of goal setting
Is the goal SMART?
How to increase your chances of success
Ciara (19) shares a goal that she achieved

The transition from primary to secondary school

Posted on 07/14/202207/14/2022 by eve

Moving from primary school to secondary school is an exciting time for many. But for young people and those around them, it can also be an anxious time.

In this article we will discuss how best to support young people while they are making this transition. As a parent, there is a lot you can do to support their mental health during this process.

The transition from primary to secondary school

How to stop stressing about exams

Posted on 03/20/202204/05/2022 by Deirdre

It’s not unusual to feel a bit stressed as it comes up to exam time. This can be a good thing sometimes as it motivates us to study.

For some of us though, exam stress can really interfere with our day-to-day lives and hinder work and concentration levels.

Covid-19 brought about many changes for everyone. Students, in particular, were heavily impacted by the closure of schools and colleges, and this hasn’t helped the last few years.

A parent’s guide to Leaving Cert stress

Posted on 04/15/202003/25/2022 by jent

It’s a nail-biting time watching your young person prepare for the Leaving Cert. In 2021, students were given the choice between sitting the exam, receiving an accredited grade, or both. Approximately 58% of students chose to sit the exam in some capacity.

2022 sees the Leaving Cert return to a more traditional format, while incorporating more choice for students. This document has the adjusted assessment arrangements for taking state exams in the 2021/22 school year. These adjustments are designed to take account of the disrupted learning experienced by students during the pandemic.

We asked Jigsaw clinicians how they support and advise parents and young people finding it hard to cope with Leaving Cert stress. They suggested the following strategies and tips to support your young person and cheer them up. They also advised how to keep yourself and your home calm during these challenging times.

Don’t demonise stress
Try diffuse any panic
Bring a sense of calm to your household
Don’t compare or offer your own experience
Find the right opportunity to chat
Encourage breaks and wind down time
Allow for rest and relaxation
Keep them nourished
Keep a routine.

How to deal with stress

Posted on 09/24/202105/20/2022 by linda

The last couple of years have turned people’s plans upside down. Young people, in particular, have been heavily impacted.

Job insecurity and uncertainty about the future can lead to challenging situations. Stress is one of those words we use so often it has almost lost its meaning.

This article covers:

What helps you manage exam stress?

Posted on 12/02/202112/03/2021 by Ciara

Sixth year student Jen talks to college student Emmet about how she manages the stress of the Leaving Cert exams.

Studying at home

Posted on 08/12/202109/27/2021 by Deirdre

Uncertainty around exams and missing out on experiences has left many young people feeling frustrated. Many students can find themselves procrastinating or losing sight of their end goals.

Take comfort in knowing that learning how to self-direct your study is a skill for life.

Below, find a helpful conversation between Evelyn O’Rourke from RTÉ Radio 1 Drive Time’s Study Hub and Jen Trzeciak, eMental Health Manager at Jigsaw, about ways for students to stay motivated to study in a time of uncertainty around exams and school.