EDUCATION NEWS - For South Africa’s Class of 2026, the final stretch of the school journey is about to become very real.

With prelims behind them, almost 900 000 Matric learners are entering the final weeks of preparation before the National Senior Certificate examinations begin in October. 

While academic preparation remains the priority, psychologists say how learners manage pressure, expectations and their emotional wellbeing can also have a significant impact on how they approach this high-stakes period.

The Matric year brings more than examinations. For many learners, it carries expectations about university, careers and their future, while the pressure to perform can amplify anxiety, self-doubt and fear of disappointing themselves or others.

Dr Lauren Martin, a registered counselling psychologist and dean at the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP), says the psychological side of Matric should not be overlooked.

“So much of the challenge of Matric exams is psychological,” says Martin. “It’s a time loaded with expectations, hopes and dreams, and that comes along with fears, anxieties and stresses.”

Just as learners need a realistic study schedule, she says, they also need practical strategies for managing their emotions during the final weeks.

Building confidence under pressure

One of the challenges learners can encounter is a loss of confidence, particularly during a sustained period of intense academic pressure.

Kirsten Harrison, a registered counsellor and programme coordination manager at SACAP, says feelings associated with imposter syndrome can surface even among learners who have previously performed well.

Learners may begin questioning whether they are genuinely capable or whether their previous achievements were simply a matter of luck. The transition beyond school can intensify these concerns as learners prepare to move into unfamiliar academic and social environments.

“Feeling like an impostor doesn't mean you are one,” says Harrison. “Confidence isn't about never doubting yourself; it's about learning to trust your abilities.”

She encourages learners experiencing self-doubt to recognise what they have already achieved and accept that being a work in progress does not diminish their capabilities.

Keeping exam results in perspective

The emphasis placed on Matric results can also contribute to stress, particularly when learners begin to view their marks as a measure of their future prospects or personal worth.

Denisha September, a registered counsellor and programme coordinator at SACAP, says learners and parents can benefit from discussing expectations before the exams and preparing for the uncertainty that comes with results.

“Of course, results are important,” says September. “But they don't define your potential, your worth or everything that you can become.”

Managing pressure, accepting uncertainty and learning how to deal with setbacks are skills that can extend beyond the Matric year, she says.

Parents have a role to play

The pressure surrounding Matric does not affect learners alone. Parents and families can also influence how young people experience the final months of school.

Rather than adding to an already intense focus on marks, parents can provide support by helping learners maintain realistic expectations and creating an environment in which they can discuss stress and uncertainty.

Understanding what the final school year feels like for today's learners can also help parents identify where practical support may be more useful than additional pressure.

Looking after the whole person

Academic preparation is only one part of getting through the final weeks.

Adequate sleep, nutritious meals, physical activity and regular breaks can all form part of maintaining wellbeing during an intense study period. Managing social media, friendships and screen time can also become important as learners try to balance concentration with opportunities to switch off.

SACAP has launched an eight-episode vodcast, The Psychology of Matric, aimed at learners and their families. Hosted by radio presenter Celest Anthony, the short episodes explore topics including exam preparation, procrastination, focus, exam anxiety and emotional wellbeing.

The series features experts including Martin, Harrison and wellbeing coach Jasantha Singh, with episodes designed to provide practical guidance that learners can access on different devices and share with their families.

The first episode was released on 23 September.

For the Class of 2026, the final weeks before the exams will inevitably bring pressure. But alongside study timetables and revision plans, understanding how to manage that pressure may be an equally important part of preparing for the final school milestone.

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