Pressure mounts for matric pupils as trial exams nears

MATRIC pupils at Chatsworth Secondary School are navigating the pressures of the trial exams with discipline, support from teachers and family, and personal sacrifices. They are striving for a 100% pass rate.

- YOSHINI PERUMAL

Aaraa Sayed, 17, of Malvern, said she had prepared a study timetable at the start of term one, and altered her sleeping routine to allow more time to study.

“I decided that if I wanted to pursue a career in neuropsychology next year, I would have to push myself to do my best. I came up with a study timetable and changed my sleeping patterns. I love sleeping, which made that change particularly challenging for me.

“From January, I stuck to the study timetable and my new sleep schedule. I study until late at night and I feel like I am prepared for the remainder of the June exams, and the trials, which will start early in the fourth term,” she said.

Although she felt prepared for her exams, Aaraa said she sometimes felt overwhelmed with the mounting pressure of the final year of her schooling.

“I feel overwhelmed at times, but I remember that I also need to relax my mind. Playing with my cat and reading helps me to unwind.