25 Raring2go! TRANSITIONING SHCOOLS From Primary to Secondary school: a guide to a smooth transition for children. The transition from primary to secondary school poses a signifi cant change for children, who go from being the eldest in year six, to the smallest fi sh in a big sea once again when they start year seven. Although this is an exciting opportunity for children to further their learning and gain independence, for many, this transition will feel extremely daunting. Thus, understanding the anxieties that children will face is crucial in order to support them through this change. What challenges might children face? Changing social circles: Anxieties about making new friends are likely to be at the forefront of children’s minds when they fi rst start a new school. They will be part of a larger and much more diverse year group and a sense of immediacy to fi t in and make an established group of friends can be a stressful prospect. Getting to and from school: For many children, starting secondary will also coincide with the fi rst time they have to get themselves to and from school. Whilst this is a fabulous opportunity for children to develop their maturity and independence, it can be a nerve-wracking addition to the transition. Increased workload: For the fi rst time, children will have subject specifi c teachers for each of their classes, all issuing their individual sets of homework. This step-up in learning content can feel quite overwhelming and at times unmanageable for children still trying to settle into a new school. How can we best support children through this transition? Communication: Encouraging children to talk about their experiences and being attentive listeners to any worries that they might have can be i th t th i ht h b helpful for children. Providing them a safe space to voice their anxieties is sometimes all they need to be able to move forward with renewed confi dence. Having a problem-solving approach: Given the series of unknows that children face when transitioning schools, worry can build up in their heads making the situation appear more troublesome than it really is. Therefore, having a direct approach to tackling problems that children might come to us with, helps to resolve any issues that arise and reassure children. Weekend activities: There is only so much we can do to aid children in their school lives, since we are not there with them. However, being an anchor for children to hold onto at home is extremely important to make the transition easier. Making sure children are happy at home is a great way to help them. Doing activities as a family over the weekend and giving them something to look forward to during the school week can help them to think positively and better cope with the transition.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDA0NjA=