Curriculum considerations for anxiety
Creative arts
Some students may need support or alternative approaches such as small groups when performing in front of others.
Some of the teaching tips from above that may be relevant in this setting include modifying tasks, predictability, clear expectations, normalising mistakes, small group works and providing a supportive and structured classroom environment.
Read more about guiding students to balance their own workload when supporting a peer.
English
Consider any known trauma triggers when choosing books for students who have been through a traumatic event. Provide choices where possible, and communicate with the student and their family prior to beginning a potentially distressing topic.
Some students may need support with tasks like oral reports or presentations. Offer other options, such as presenting to a small group of friends, making a PowerPoint presentation, or providing a private video of their presentation.
Some students may use creative writing activities as a format to express and process emotional distress or traumatic experiences. If content includes references that may indicate a student is at risk or may benefit from supports, consider connecting them with the learning and support team.
Languages
Give extra information or support to students if there are out-of-routine activities.
Students with selective mutism or anxiety may experience increased anxiety when tested out loud, so consider alternative forms of testing.
Human society and it's environment
Give extra information or support to students if there are out-of-routine activities, rotations or excursions.
If known, consider a student’s triggers or trauma history when selecting topics that could be related.
Personal development, health and physical education
PDHPE can be very different from week to week. Support may be needed for students who become anxious with changes.
Additional support or alternative approaches such as working in pairs or small groups may support students who are anxious about performing in front of others.
Some parts of PDHPE may be extra worrying to a student with anxiety, such as swimming lessons, sports competitions or changing their uniform with other students there.
Some of the teaching tips from above that may be relevant in this setting include modifying tasks, predictability, clear expectations, normalising mistakes, small group work and providing a supportive and structured classroom environment.
Mathematics
Mathematics can make some students anxious. Avoid tests or exercises where students are timed, as a students with anxiety may feel too stressed to do their best.
Help a student feel confident by making sure they are given tasks they can do well. This might mean giving lots of questions or activities that a student can already do, with a few questions or activities that they are still learning.
Some of the teaching tips from above that may be relevant in this setting include normalise mistakes, and allow time to calm down.
Science
Give extra information or support to students if there are out-of-routine activities, rotations or excursions.
Technology
Give extra information or support to students if there are out-of-routine activities, rotations or excursions.
Some students may experience cyberbullying and be anxious about using technology. See our school story about cyberbullying.