Preparing for secondary school
The transition from primary to secondary school is exciting for children and marks a new phase in their lives. Children recognise it as part of growing up and are aware that their lives are about to change in an important way. Like any change, it can also bring uncertainty. Most children will manage the transition to secondary school successfully.
However, there may be ups and downs. It’s easy for children to slip from feeling happy and confident one minute, to feeling nervous or anxious and back again as they find their feet. As a parent or carer there is much you can do to help your child through the transition period with careful and sensitive preparation.
Top tips to support children with the change
- Talk about starting secondary school with your child.
- Familiarise your child with their new school.
- Ensure key information is shared with the secondary school.
- Prepare in advance.
- Help develop independence and organisation.
- Give it time – and keep some reassuring routines.
Resource to help parents with the transition
| Supporting Children Through Secondary Transition Final |  (pdf 6.43MB) |