London schools trialling VR to relieve pupils’ stress

The pilot programme across Sutton schools has reported improved pupil attendance and behaviour and reduced exam anxiety. Photograph: Alistair Berg/Getty Images

Schools 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 schools in the London borough of Sutton are using VR headsets made by tech firm Phase Space in a pilot in conjunction with the local NHS mental health trust.