Childline has created a series of video discussions with recent school leavers on how to beat the after school dread

A children’s charity has created a series of videos to help support school leavers.

With leaving school often a stressful time for young people as they prepare for the future, Childline has commissioned videos which discuss some of the pressures that youngsters face.

The videos, which are being distributed on social media, feature young people giving top tips on how to beat the end of school dread.

Leanne Ferries, manager of the Childline base in Aberdeen, said leaving school affects young people in different ways.

She said: “One of the top concerns that our counsellors deal with from young people is about mental and emotional health. We get lots of contacts from young people who are feeling worried, anxious and scared about leaving school. This can have a big impact on young people and it’s important that they talk to someone about these concerns.”

While leaving school can be exciting it is also an anxious time for many young people, especially those who face leaving home, and Ferries said it is important to ensure that school leavers feel supported.

She said: “Not all young people have happy home lives and school can be a safe place away from pressures at home. Some young people get regular support from school staff or counsellors and worry that they won’t be able to cope without them.

“Making decisions and thinking about the future can be stressful. It’s normal to be worried – it can mean change and uncertainty. But it can also lead to exciting opportunities for a fresh start. Young people often underestimate how well they will cope when they leave school and find that they enjoy it much more than they realise.”

More videos and support for school leavers are available on the Childline Facebook page.