Hi there
Thank you for your message and explaining a bit about how things are for you. I can hear that you feel you are putting lots of pressure on yourself to achieve the highest marks and are possibly feeling worried that you would not be able to keep up with these targets in year 11 as you feel you will have less time to prepare.
You mentioned that you are scared that you might break down next year. It may be important to put in place some ways that help you relax and reduce some of the pressure you are putting on yourself. Some young people, who are going through the final years at school, find it difficult to achieve their best if they are feeling stressed. So things like deep breathing techniques, exercising or even taking time out from studying and doing something you feel would express your emotions like drawing and writing can help. You can find more information on the 'beat exam stress' page within Explore.
You said that your teacher supports you, I wonder what you think about the idea of talking to them about your feelings towards next year and perhaps they will be able to offer you some advice.
Having high goals can be really positive; however it is also important to be able to take care of yourself as well as trying to reach your goals. I wonder what you think about the idea of writing out a timetable. Allowing yourself time to prepare and study and also time for you to relax and enjoy yourself. You can find some helpful tips on the BBC Learning website which includes information on studying and revision.
I can hear that you feel you have a competitive nature and also by having friends who receive equally high grades I imagine this may increase the amount of pressure you put on yourself to get the absolute top marks. Sometimes it can be healthy to compete with your friends, but it may be helpful to look at ways that you and your friends can support each other rather than being competitive. For example, you could have a study night together as a group. By sharing knowledge and supporting each other, it could help make it feel like more of a team effort rather than a competition.
Working towards your GCSE’s can be quite a stressful time and I am really glad you have written to me.
Take care
Sam