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Five ways to help young people thrive in an uncertain world
In a world where pupils face increasing academic pressures, social complexities and a constant stream of digital information, resilience has become more than a desirable quality – it is an essential life skill.
Yet, resilience is often misunderstood. It is not about being unaffected by disappointment, avoiding setbacks or always appearing strong; rather, it is the ability to recover from challenges, learn from difficult experiences and continue moving forward with confidence and purpose.
At St Martin’s School, resilience is viewed as something that can be intentionally developed through supportive relationships, meaningful opportunities and a strong sense of belonging.
“Resilience is not something young people either have or don’t have,” says Reverend Thabo Rafuku, School Chaplain at St Martin’s School. “It is built over time through experience, encouragement and learning how to navigate challenges in a healthy way. As educators, our role is not to remove every obstacle from a child’s path, but to help them develop the confidence and character to face those obstacles themselves.”
Below are five key ways schools and families can work together to raise resilient young people.
1. Allow young people to experience manageable challenges
While it can be tempting to shield children from disappointment, resilience develops when young people learn how to cope with setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it is not making a sports team, receiving a disappointing test result or navigating friendship difficulties, these experiences provide valuable opportunities for growth when supported by caring adults. Learning that setbacks are temporary and manageable helps teenagers build confidence in their own ability to overcome difficulties.
2. Create a strong sense of belonging
Young people are more likely to take healthy risks, persevere through challenges and seek help when needed if they feel connected to a supportive community. Schools play a vital role in creating environments where students feel known, valued and accepted.
“A strong school community gives young people a foundation from which they can grow,” says Dayne Smith, Digital Learning of St Martin’s School. “When students know they are supported by teachers, peers and mentors, they are more willing to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new opportunities.”
3. Focus on character as much as achievement
Academic success remains important, but resilience is often built through qualities such as perseverance, empathy, responsibility and integrity. Character education encourages young people to understand that growth comes through effort and that mistakes are an important part of the learning process. By celebrating determination and progress alongside achievement, schools can help students develop a healthier and more sustainable definition of success.
4. Encourage independence and problem-solving
One of the greatest gifts adults can give young people is the opportunity to think for themselves. Rather than immediately providing solutions, parents and educators can encourage teenagers to reflect on challenges, consider options and make informed decisions. This process develops self-belief and equips young people with practical skills they will carry into adulthood.
5. Model resilience at home
Young people learn as much from what adults do as from what they say. Parents who demonstrate healthy responses to stress, setbacks and uncertainty provide powerful examples of resilience in action. Open conversations about challenges, combined with reassurance and perspective, can help teenagers understand that difficulties are a normal part of life and that growth often emerges from adversity.
As society continues to evolve, the ability to adapt, persevere and remain grounded will become increasingly valuable.
“Ultimately, resilience is about helping young people understand that they are capable,” says Reverend Rafuku. “When children feel supported, challenged and encouraged, they begin to recognise their own strength. That confidence stays with them long after they leave school and helps prepare them not only for academic success, but for life itself.”