Moving from Primary School to Secondary School

Sometimes adults forget the worries that children have. The problems kids have may pale insignificance to ‘grown up’ issues like paying the mortgage and getting a job. But they shouldn’t forget that children go through tough times too and none cause more distress to young children than the move from primary school to secondary school.

Secondary school is very different to primary school. At primary school children feel much more secure. The classes are smaller and the teachers get to know the children well. The same twenty or thirty children have the same teacher every day, all day so manage to build a close relationship with each other and with their teacher.

Secondary school is somewhat scary for children. Classes are much bigger and the children have a different teacher for each subject, and often different classmates too. It is harder to build relationships quickly. The sheer size of the school can be daunting. There is more independence for the children and that is not always welcomed by them. But there are ways you can make the experience easier for yourself.

Take Advantage Of Open Days

Most senior schools offer open days before the start of term where the new students can come and look around the school, either as a group or with a parent. Go along to this. Get to know the route to school and the layout etc. before you actually start. This will mean the experience will be less daunting when you do start.

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If Possible, Go To A School Where You Know Others

It is not always possible but where it is, try and go to a school where you will know other children. Some children find it very difficult to make friends quickly so going to a school where you already have at least one or two friends will make it easier for you to adapt.

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Speak With The Teachers

It's not very nice to have to leave school and the teacher you've got so close to but unfortunately that's what happens when you have to move to secondary school. However you can make an effort to get to know the teachers both before you start and when you are attending. Before you start, when you attend the open day, talk to the teachers. Tell them about yourself and get to know them a little. Once you start at the school talk to the teachers if you feel you're having difficulty.

Get Excited About Going To School

You will no doubt be nervous before starting secondary school. Try to turn that nervousness into excitement. Go shopping for stationery and new books for school. Think positively and remember how much fun it will be.

Going to secondary school can be traumatic but with the right help and preparation it can turn out to be among the best experience of your life, where you'll make solid friendships and have some great experiences. Just make sure you talk about your problems and get the best help you can.

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