Primary school hires hypnotist to help kids relax before Sats tests, headteacher says it improves results
Hypnotist Clarissa Woodcock gets them to imagine writing their fears on a stone and hurling it in a lake
A PRIMARY school has hired a hypnotist to help pupils aged ten and 11 to relax before Sats tests.
Clarissa Woodcock gets them to imagine writing their fears on a stone and hurling it in a lake.
She also puts kids in the mood for revision by teaching them chants and breathing exercises, and encouraging them to focus on “positive colours”.
Headteacher Sian Deane said it had helped produce record Sats results.
She added: “The children have reacted really positively to this. They appear happier, calmer and have much more confidence.
“They go home and tell their families about it. It helps them to manage their emotions too.”
Pupil Joe, 11, agreed, saying: “Instead of my thoughts controlling me, I’m in control of my thoughts.”
Parents initially had doubts over the techniques at Holmer Lake Primary School in Telford, Shrops. But Mrs Deane said: “We let them meet Clarissa and have a chat so they knew exactly what to expect.”
Relaxation expert Clarissa — a world away from comic show Little Britain’s dodgy hypnotherapist Kenny Craig — began working with children there three years ago.
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The ex-teacher, of Shrewsbury, was inspired after seeing kids falter under exam pressure in her classroom days.
Ms Woodcock explained that the children remain fully awake in her sessions and outlined one technique.
She said: “I find out what’s important to them. Then I help them find a resourceful state of mind. We call this ‘The Magic Button’.
“I get them to think of a time they felt really happy and get them to press a finger and thumb together.
“Whenever they feel stressed, I tell them to repeat the action. It helps them associate with that happy time.
“I give them a chill-out CD to listen to at home and ask the school to play it daily to help relaxation. They’re taught breathing and mantras too.”
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