As the exam season fast approaches, we spoke with Joshua Jordan, Learner Engagement and Personal Development Lead at Gower College Swansea, about the College’s support systems, top revision advice, and why wellbeing should never be overlooked during this busy time.
Q: Tell us a bit about your role at Gower College Swansea.
A: My role is Learner Engagement and Personal Development Lead. I oversee the tutorial programme and organise guest speakers, events and campaigns that enrich our learners’ experience. I’m part of the wider Learner Experience Team, and together we focus on offering support, opportunities and experiences that enhance student life, which is vital for us at Gower College Swansea.
Q: What kind of support does the College offer learners during exam season?
A: Honestly, we offer so much that it’s hard to summarise! We provide wrap-around support that meets learners wherever they are. This includes Personal Tutors, Progress Coaches, and lecturers giving in-class support, as well as Pastoral Coaches and Student Support Officers offering personalised help. Then there’s the Additional Learning Needs team, the Library, the Active Wellbeing Team, and the Students' Union – all working together to ensure learners have everything they need.
Q: How are you supporting students’ wellbeing specifically?
A: We know that every learner copes with exam stress differently – and some are still figuring out what works for them – so we offer a wide range of wellbeing experiences. We’ve introduced Wellbeing Dogs on campus, which give learners a chance to unwind and connect with animals, which can reduce stress levels by over 30% after just a 15-minute interaction*. We also run VR headset sessions offering 15 minutes of guided relaxation, and our Active Wellbeing Lead, Louise, is leading walks, yoga, and recreational sports to help students with crucial revision breaks.
We’re also creating quiet rooms for learners to escape busy library spaces – ideal for quiet games or simply taking a breather.
Q: There’s also a VR project for exams, isn’t there?
A: Yes! One of our most innovative offers is using VR to help anxious learners experience exam conditions before the big day. They can take a virtual tour of the exam room, hear the ticking of the clock, and practise finding their seat – it all helps make the unknown feel familiar, which can be a real confidence booster. This idea is also built fully within the College, by our Digital Peer Mentors, whom alongside Jonathan Parker, digital media lecturer and College VR lead, are filming, developing and delivering this cutting-edge tech for our students.
Q: What is the Gower College Swansea Just BREATHE campaign?
A: Our Just BREATHE campaign is our wellbeing initiative specifically aimed at helping students manage exam stress and anxiety. We launched it in response to the increasing pressures learners face – from university applications and job prospects to expectations from parents and teachers. The campaign offers practical tips and acts as a helpful acronym:
- B – Big breath – jump in!
- R – Read your notes
- E – Explore topics in more detail – find a fun fact to help memory
- A – Ask yourself mock questions
- T – Take a break – step away from the desk
- H – Highlights – recap what you know
- E – Evaluate – review what you’ve missed
It’s a simple, memorable guide that supports effective and mindful revision.
Q: What are your top revision tips for learners?
A: My biggest piece of advice is: look after yourself. Avoid cramming, stick to a routine, and take regular breaks. Build a timetable with short chunks of revision followed by something productive – maybe walking the dog, helping with housework, or trying a new recipe. It’s about keeping your spirits up and stress levels low.
Q: And any advice for parents or guardians?
A: Yes – get involved! Ask questions, help with flashcards, support a routine. Even helping your child with staying hydrated, well fed and ensuring they factor in downtime as part of the process. Being an active part of their revision plans can really help learners feel supported and motivated.
Q: Final thoughts?
A: If you’re struggling, don’t go it alone. Support is always available at College – reach out. We’re here to help you succeed, not just academically, but personally too.