Students across two primary schools in Arima, Trinidad, expressed widespread relief and satisfaction following yesterday’s Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) examination, with many describing the test as surprisingly manageable. The Express conducted interviews at Arima Presbyterian and Malabar Government Primary Schools, capturing the emotional responses from students and parents alike.
Arianna Maharaj of Arima Presbyterian Primary School enthusiastically declared the exam ‘easy,’ a sentiment echoed by her father Vishal, who shared his overwhelming excitement and anticipation for the results. The day held double celebration for 11-year-old Annilie Amoroso, who emerged from the examination compound wearing a birthday crown and sash. Despite encountering one challenging mathematics question, Amoroso expressed confidence in her performance and hopes to secure placement at Bishop Anstey High School East.
Maya Noreiga provided comparative insight, noting that ‘past papers were harder than the actual exams,’ while acknowledging her aspiration to attend St. Joseph’s Convent. Her mother, Natasha Caldon, attributed this confidence to thorough preparation that left her daughter ‘comfortable, happy and at peace.’
The examination experience varied among participants. Caleb Austarlie reported minor difficulties with creative writing but found preparation exercises ‘relaxing,’ aiming to join his sister at Arima Central Secondary School. Conversely, Kemiley St Benard described mathematics as ‘kind of hard,’ though she maintained belief in her overall performance.
Parental perspectives highlighted the emotional toll of preparation. Kerishma Johnson characterized her daughter’s study period as ‘frustrating,’ while Kristin Martinez acknowledged the ‘plenty work’ involved in completing numerous booklets. At Malabar Government Primary, Janae Bharose completed the exam with visual concessions, expressing happiness that the intensive ‘exam style’ preparation had concluded despite mathematics challenges.
The collective mood reflected significant relief as families transition from examination stress to celebratory anticipation of results, marking both an educational milestone and personal achievement for Trinidad’s youth.