The move to secondary school is a big step in a child’s life. It can be really exciting for some children, but for others it can be quite a scary prospect. Some children may flourish, and some may struggle with the changes, and need extra support.
Secondary school offers greater independence for your child, and they start to feel more grown up. However, starting secondary school means a lot of new things to get used to all at once. Your child will have to get familiar with new surroundings, navigate a larger school, and move to different classrooms for each new lesson. As well as a lot of teachers to remember, they will also have new subjects and more homework to do.
Adapting to these changes, along with the physical changes of puberty, can make it a daunting time for your child
As a parent or carer, it can be a nerve-racking time for you, too. You want your child to settle into their new school with no issues. While a lot of children respond well to the move and the changes, this isn’t always the case.
If your child needs more reassurance, there are plenty of things you can do to help make the transition smoother and less stressful for everyone.
Before they start secondary school, talk openly with your child about what they are looking forward to and what they might be worried about. Keep having these conversations once they have started their new school. This way, you can work through any worries they have.
Go through their school checklist together to make sure they have everything they need. Then go shopping together to get the stationery they need, a suitable bag and school shoes that fit the school’s uniform policy. This can be a fun part of preparing for secondary school, even if they’re feeling very nervous.
If the school has an online portal, make sure you are signed up to it. This should provide you with any information you might need and should help you put your mind at ease should you have any worries. Read through letters together so you know all the details. Many schools have a staggered start at the beginning of term to help the new children settle in before everyone else arrives.
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