Using Virtual Reality to Help Students Manage Emotions in London Schools

May 4, 2026, 13:15
UKTechnology

Introduction

Secondary schools in London have started using virtual reality (VR) technology to help students reduce stress and anxiety.

Main Body

The Phase Space VR technology is currently being tested in fifteen secondary schools in the London borough of Sutton. This project is working closely with the South West London and St George’s NHS Trust's mental health services for children and adolescents (Camhs). The program is specifically designed for students who have ADHD, feel anxious about exams, or face difficult situations at home. Students participate in a seven-minute immersive session, which they can access through a scheduled appointment or when they feel emotionally overwhelmed. At the Ark Academy, staff have observed that the technology is mostly used in the mornings to help students who are distressed or struggling with changes in their routine. The school reports that there are fewer disruptions in class because students now ask for the VR session to calm down instead of leaving the classroom without permission. Furthermore, Zillah Watson, one of the program's creators, emphasized that 90% of students in the first ten schools felt an immediate drop in stress. Consequently, this technology may be a cost-effective way to support the overstretched NHS services while improving student attendance and focus.

Conclusion

VR technology is being used as an effective tool to help students stabilize their emotions and reduce anxiety in London schools.

Learning

πŸš€ The 'Logic Bridge': Moving from Simple to Complex Connections

At the A2 level, you likely use 'and', 'but', and 'because' to connect your ideas. To reach B2, you need Connectors of Result and Addition. These words act like bridges that make your writing sound professional and academic.

πŸ” Spotlight on the Text

Look at how the article moves from a fact to a result:

*"...students now ask for the VR session to calm down... Furthermore, Zillah Watson... emphasized... Consequently, this technology may be a cost-effective way..."

πŸ› οΈ The B2 Upgrade Kit

1. Instead of "And also..." β†’\rightarrow Use "Furthermore"

  • What it does: It adds a new, important piece of information to support your point.
  • A2 Style: "The VR is good. Also, it helps students focus."
  • B2 Style: "The VR is effective for stress; furthermore, it helps students focus on their lessons."

2. Instead of "So..." β†’\rightarrow Use "Consequently"

  • What it does: It shows a direct logical result (Cause β†’\rightarrow Effect).
  • A2 Style: "Students are less stressed, so they stay in class."
  • B2 Style: "Students are less stressed; consequently, classroom disruptions have decreased."

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip for Fluency

Notice that these words are often followed by a comma (,). This creates a natural pause in the reader's mind, giving your argument more weight and authority.

Vocabulary Learning

technology (n.)
the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry.
Example:The new technology allows students to experience virtual classrooms.
reduce (v.)
to make something smaller or less.
Example:Using VR can reduce stress in students.
stress (n.)
a state of mental or emotional strain.
Example:The exam caused a lot of stress.
anxiety (n.)
a feeling of worry or unease about something.
Example:She felt anxiety before the presentation.
adolescent (n.)
a young person in the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
Example:The program is designed for adolescents with ADHD.
immersive (adj.)
providing a complete, engaging experience that feels real.
Example:The immersive VR session made the student feel present.
overwhelmed (adj.)
overloaded with too many demands or emotions.
Example:After the long day, she felt overwhelmed.
observed (v.)
noticed or watched something over time.
Example:The staff observed a decrease in disruptions.
routine (n.)
a regular or habitual way of doing something.
Example:Changing the routine can be difficult for students.
disruptions (n.)
interruptions that disturb normal activity.
Example:The VR session helped reduce classroom disruptions.
permission (n.)
official approval to do something.
Example:Students need permission to leave the classroom.
cost-effective (adj.)
providing good value for the money spent.
Example:The VR solution is a cost-effective way to support students.