[Celyn]

Hey there,

Really sorry you haven't got a reply sooner! And sorry to hear that you are finding school hard. What that teacher said was rather inappropriate. Regardless if it was meant as a joke (without him realising you hadn't done well on it), he should be more careful about what he says, as you could potentially report him for that.

Have you been in school before? If you haven't, and you were home schooled, it may be that the curriculum you studied previously doesn't match what was taught at the school....so it would appear that you are behind. I'm also wondering what the diagnostic test was for, and how the results would be used? In theory, tests can help pick up when students may have learning difficulties, so if a teacher thinks that you may be struggling a bit, they should talk to you (or you talk to them) so that you can get the right help.

I know it's really hard when you study and you try hard, but at the same time, don't do well as you hoped (that's happened to me before too!) but at least you are trying. It doesn't make you stupid though! Is it possible to talk to a teacher and let them know that you feel you are trying really hard and not getting anywhere? Perhaps ask them if there is anything you are doing wrong, or could improve on? Teachers do want to help, but sometimes you might have to approach them first in case they don't realise that things are bothering you.

Try not to criticise yourself or stress so much about school (easier said than done, I know). I find that when we feel negative and stressed, it does make it harder to remember things (which is needed for learning). Also, I'm not too sure about your education system, but are there any resources online which can offer interactive quizzes and tests? It would be good if you can try to revise the subjects you are learning and then test yourself and get feedback straight away. If not, perhaps you can ask your teacher for some practice and answer sheets?

Hope this helps a bit