Countdown to secondary school
The end of primary school marks a major milestone in your life. Many young people feel anxious about the move from primary school - particularly if you are moving from a small primary school to a large secondary school.
Your new school will have different routines and expectations. Although you may find this adjustment hard to manage at first, it usually sorts itself out over time - and there are plenty of people to help you.
"I think all the teachers (at my school) have been trying to prepare us for high school for years. I remember in Year 5 my teacher was telling us that we need to knuckle down if we are going to get to high school. And all the teachers in Year 6 are helping us out heaps - giving us Year 7 work to get us prepared for high school. So I think everything is fine."
(Year 6 student)
Some useful tips for you
The end of primary school marks a major milestone in your life. Many young people feel anxious about the move from primary school - particularly if you are moving from a small primary school to a large secondary school.
Your new school will have different routines and expectations. Although you may find this adjustment hard to manage at first, it usually sorts itself out over time - and there are plenty of people to help you.
"I think all the teachers (at my school) have been trying to prepare us for high school for years. I remember in Year 5 my teacher was telling us that we need to knuckle down if we are going to get to high school. And all the teachers in Year 6 are helping us out heaps - giving us Year 7 work to get us prepared for high school. So I think everything is fine."
(Year 6 student)
Some useful tips for you
- Familiarise yourself with the school buildings and grounds. If you have already attended the orientation day you will have some understanding of the layout of your new school before you start. Ask for a school map from the front office if you are not provided with one.
- Learn about school routines – what time does school start and finish; what time is recess and lunchtime.
- Learn about your timetable – it will list specific subjects and classroom numbers. It is a good idea to make a few copies of your new timetable to keep in different places, such as your student diary, on the fridge at home and on your computer.
- Label all your books, equipment and personal items.
- Become familiar with your public transport timetable - particularly if you are not used to travelling on your own. Don't forget to have a backup plan, in case you miss your transport.
- Find out about the school uniform requirements - during school hours, while travelling to and from school and also when you are participating in school activities held out of school hours.
- Become familiar with emergency and safety issues. Your school should be well prepared to deal with emergencies.
| countdowntosecondaryschool_checklist.pdf |
