The Ultimate Back-to-School Survival Guide for Students and Parents

The new school year is here—and if you’re like most parents and students, it can feel equal parts exciting and stressful. Whether your child is starting Year 7, moving up to GCSEs, or tackling their final year, a smooth transition sets the tone for the term ahead.

The good news? With a little planning, practical support, and the right resources, you can help your child start the term confident, organised, and ready to succeed.

1. Get Organised With a Simple Study Plan

Starting the year with structure is key. Even just 10–15 minutes a day dedicated to planning can make a huge difference in your child’s focus and motivation.

Our GCSE English Success Planner is designed to help students:

• Track weekly revision and daily mini exercises

• Stay on top of key skills like essay writing, reading comprehension, and creative writing

• Use a Back-to-School checklist to prioritise what matters most

• Involve parents in supporting learning without micromanaging

Tip: Encourage your child to complete the mini daily exercises—it builds confidence in small, manageable steps.

Grab your free GCSE English Success Planner here.

2. Recognise & Reduce Back-to-School Anxiety

It’s normal for kids (and parents!) to feel a little nervous before the term begins. But sometimes anxiety can become overwhelming, affecting sleep, concentration, and confidence.

Signs to watch for include:

• Complaints of tummy aches or headaches

• Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares

• Avoiding school or making excuses not to go

• Emotional outbursts or clinginess

If any of these sound familiar, our Complete Parent’s Guide to Back-to-School Anxiety offers step-by-step strategies to help your child:

• Navigate the transition from Year 6 to secondary school

• Manage pressure during GCSE years

• Build routines that support emotional wellbeing

• Communicate effectively without escalating stress

Pro tip: Encourage small wins and celebrate them—it helps your child feel in control and supported.

Download the free Back-to-School Anxiety Guide here.

3. Simple Daily Routines Make a Big Difference

Consistency is your best friend. Encourage your child to:

• Follow a morning routine with a healthy breakfast

• Check in briefly about the day ahead without overwhelming conversation

• Take short breaks after school to decompress

• Stick to an evening wind-down routine with limited screen time

For parents, this means staying present, patient, and available without micromanaging. Even small adjustments, like ensuring a quiet study space or a set homework time, can dramatically reduce stress.

4. Weekly Reviews Help Track Progress

It’s easy for weeks to slip by without noticing small improvements. A weekly review can:

• Help your child reflect on what’s going well

• Identify areas where extra practice is needed

• Strengthen parent-student communication in a non-pressured way

Both the study planner and anxiety guide include tools to help with weekly tracking—making this step straightforward and effective.

5. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Remember: this year isn’t just about academic success—it’s about building resilience, confidence, and independence.

• Connect with other parents for tips and support

• Reach out to school pastoral teams when you need advice

• Encourage your child to take ownership of their learning, even in small ways

Parenting a student through back-to-school challenges is tough—but with the right approach, it can also be hugely rewarding.

Start the Term Strong

Make this back-to-school season stress-free and successful with our free resources:

• GCSE English Success Planner – Organise, revise, and build confidence.

• Back-to-School Anxiety Guide – Step-by-step support for parents and students.

With simple planning, supportive routines, and practical strategies, you can help your child tackle the new term with confidence—and even enjoy the journey along the way.