Next Steps in London: Wellbeing & Exam Special Edition

31 Mar 2026

Young people across London are entering one of the most pressured periods of their educational journey. Exam season brings uncertainty, intensity and big decisions about post‑16 and post‑18 pathways, decisions that influence wellbeing, confidence and long‑term career readiness. To support students, parents, carers and educators through this critical time, the four London Careers Hubs have collaborated to launch Next Steps in London: Wellbeing & Exam Special Edition - a comprehensive set of resources designed to put wellbeing at the heart of progression. The Central London Careers Hubs are proud to have lead this important project

This new edition recognises something essential: young people make their best decisions when they feel regulated, supported and confident. As stress levels rise, career thinking often becomes harder - yet this is exactly when young people need clarity and calm the most. The Wellbeing & Exam Special meets that challenge directly, offering practical, accessible tools that help students manage pressure and stay focused on their futures.

Wellbeing isn’t an “add‑on” to careers education but a foundational enabler. This edition positions wellbeing as a central part of preparing for transitions, linking exam‑season coping strategies with long‑term progression.

The resource helps young people to:

• Understand how wellbeing and decision‑making are connected
• Build resilience, confidence and self‑belief
• Recognise strengths and transferable skills, even in stressful moments
• Maintain perspective during exams and at results time
• Stay open to opportunities, pathways and next steps across London

By grounding career thinking in emotional regulation and self-awareness, the resource supports students t move into their next stage with clarity and confidence, not fear or overwhelm. Developed collaboratively by the four London Careers Hubs, this edition builds on a shared commitment: ensuring every young Londoner has access to high‑quality careers support, no matter their background or circumstances.

The resource is designed to be inclusive, accessible and relevant for London’s diverse communities, particularly those who may not always feel connected to traditional forms of guidance.

It reflects ongoing work across the city to:

• Improve equity and access
• Strengthen the interface between families and schools
• Equip young people for a fast‑changing labour market
• Embed wellbeing into every stage of progression planning

The Next Steps in London: Wellbeing & Exam Special Edition is freely available for all schools, colleges, families and partners supporting young people across the capital.

Download a copy here: Next Steps in London