Starting Year 7

Going from Year 6 to Year 7 is a really big step in your school life and can be both exciting and scary. Planning for this change can help you build confidence and independence skills.

Here are some useful tips to help you prepare:

• If you are worried about how or where you will buy lunch or where the toilets are, remember you will have an introduction to the school and be shown around. They will also give you maps to help find your way around. It’s a good idea to discuss with your parents how you will get to school and practice the route over the holidays. Have a plan in place to know what to do if your bus is late or train cancelled.
• Make sure that if you’ll be home before your parents to have a house key.
• School uniform is important, make sure you know what’s expected in terms of appearance. Check you have all the right equipment.
• There will be homework! Try and plan time in the day to complete it.
• Understand the school’s digital policy on personal devices such as tablets and phones.

You may feel nervous about starting secondary school, but remember, everyone is in the same boat. Most children will be looking to make new friends, just like you!

Teens Talk Health Podcast

In a three-part dedicated episode about starting secondary, meet Ariana, Sam, and Charlie who talk to our nurses about what starting Year 7 was like for them. (Spoiler, it might be the same as you!).

Listen below, or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

For more information: Making the move from primary to secondary