Transition to Secondary School

On Monday 1 July, our Year 6 class will start their transition week. This is an exciting time as the children get to experience a big step. It can also be a nervous time as children move to a new environment. However, there is no reason to worry – secondary school is the time for children to develop their personality, mix with new people and create memories that will last a lifetime.  

What to expect 

When you move up to secondary school, there will be a few differences to primary school. You will have the opportunity to meet lots of new friends as your year group will be much bigger. Also, you will be in different classrooms for different subjects, meaning you will have different teachers too. This means you’ll become more independent as you move around the school to your next lesson.  

You might not be in the same classes as your friends from primary school, but don’t let that make you nervous! With so many people in your year group, you will have the opportunity to meet people with the same interests as you, as well as people with different and interesting cultures. You’ll have the opportunity to try new things and broaden your horizons. 

How parents can help 

It’s natural for your child to be nervous, so there are a few things you can do to help. Encourage your child to prepare what they need the night before – uniform, pencil case, rucksack. This way there won’t be any rush in the morning. Clubs and extra-curricular activities can be a great way to not only find a hobby but make new friends, so encourage your child to get involved. Help them to understand their timetable, and talk to them about what they’re doing throughout the day and what they’re enjoying.  

Before your children start secondary school, it’s worth practicing the routine beforehand. If your child is catching the bus, show them where the bus stop is and where they’ll get off. If they’re walking, walk the route with them so that they’re confident to do it on their own. Your child will be more independent in secondary school, so give them the opportunity to experience this independence beforehand. Try to familiarise yourself with the school, too, such as where to find event dates and what teachers to contact should you need to. 

We look forward to the year 6 class starting their transition week. We know it’s going to be an exciting week and that they’ll find their feet in no time.