London schools trialling VR to relieve pupils’ stress
Some London schools are trialling a virtual reality programme called Phase Space to help students manage stress related to exams, ADHD, and personal issues. The pilot, conducted in Sutton and at Ark Academy, has reported improvements in attendance, behaviour, and reduced anxiety. Pupils use VR headsets for short sessions to calm down and refocus, with many reporting immediate stress relief.
- ▪All 15 secondary schools in Sutton are participating in the Phase Space VR pilot programme with the local NHS mental health trust.
- ▪Nine out of 10 pupils who used the VR headsets reported an immediate drop in stress levels.
- ▪The VR sessions last seven minutes and are used either prearranged or when students feel overwhelmed during the school day.
- ▪Students have shown improved self-control, focus, and reduced need to leave lessons due to anxiety.
- ▪The programme was co-created by Zillah Watson, a former head of VR at the BBC and a visiting professor at University College London.
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The pilot programme across Sutton schools has reported improved pupil attendance and behaviour and reduced exam anxiety. Photograph: Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenThe pilot programme across Sutton schools has reported improved pupil attendance and behaviour and reduced exam anxiety. Photograph: Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesYoung peopleLondon schools trialling VR to relieve pupils’ stressPhase Space pilot programme with NHS mental health trust used to calm anxiety around exams, ADHD and home troublesDenis Campbell Health policy editorMon 4 May 2026 04.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleSchools have begun deploying virtual reality to help pupils cope with stress caused by impending exams, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or difficult home lives.All 15 secondary…
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